P. Diddy Jurors May Be Siding With Defense, Courtroom Expert Reveals as Testimony Continues

NEW YORK — As week four of Sean “P. Diddy” Combs’ high-profile racketeering and sex trafficking trial draws to a close, courtroom observers say jurors may be leaning toward the defense, despite weeks of disturbing testimony and graphic evidence.

With cameras and audio equipment banned from federal court, much of what the public knows about the case comes from live reporting and courtroom sketches. Reporters like Elizabeth Milner and Matthew Russell Lee have provided real-time updates, offering a rare glimpse into the mood and dynamics inside Judge Arun Subramanian’s Manhattan courtroom.

Testimony Highlights and Legal Hurdles

The prosecution has called more than a dozen witnesses, including two key accusers: Cassie Ventura and a woman identified only as “Jane.” Both women described being drawn into elaborate sexual “freakoffs” orchestrated by Combs, often involving escorts and explicit direction from the music mogul. Jane, described as a single mother who fell in love with Combs, testified about being transported to various cities for sex acts, supporting charges of transportation to engage in prostitution.

However, legal experts note a crucial distinction: while Jane’s testimony may bolster the prosecution’s claims of prostitution-related crimes, the more serious charge of sex trafficking requires proof of force, fraud, or coercion. So far, Jane has described a relationship marked by financial support and emotional attachment, but has not provided clear evidence of force or fraud. “There’s a little bit of financial control which may go to coercion, but not maybe what you need to get a conviction here,” one analyst noted.

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Jane admitted on the stand that her relationship with Combs continued up until his arrest in August 2024, a detail that could undermine her credibility as a trafficking victim. She described feeling “pampered and in love,” even as she recounted nights where Combs arranged for her to have sex with other men while he watched.

Juror Reactions and Courtroom Dynamics

Perhaps most striking are the reports about the jury’s demeanor. According to Matthew Russell Lee of Inner City Press, both prosecutors and the judge have expressed concern that some jurors may be sympathetic to Combs. The judge recently admonished Combs for nodding at jurors, warning that such behavior could be seen as an attempt to influence the jury—a serious concern given Combs’ alleged history of intimidating witnesses.

Lee described the nodding not as intimidation, but as a “visual high five,” suggesting a subtle rapport between the defendant and certain jurors. “There were jurors who, if you were willing to take a leap and describe somebody’s mind by the expression you see on their face, were highly dubious [of prosecution witnesses],” Lee said.

Defense attorneys, including Brian Steel and Nicole West Morland, have drawn praise for their cross-examinations. West Morland, in particular, has been credited with exposing inconsistencies in witness testimony, while Steel’s formal, strategic style has reportedly resonated with the jury.

Witness Credibility Under Scrutiny

The prosecution’s case has faced setbacks, especially during the cross-examination of key witnesses. For example, Brianna Bengolan, who alleged that Combs once dangled her off a balcony, was confronted with text messages and photo metadata that cast doubt on her story. Similarly, another accuser, Mia, faced questions about why she continued to work for Combs and sent him affectionate messages after the alleged assaults.

Prosecutors have tried to explain these contradictions by pointing to the complex power dynamics at play, arguing that financial dependence and subtle pressure can prevent victims from leaving abusive situations. Still, the defense has seized on these points to challenge the credibility of the accusers.

Prosecution Still Has Strong Cards

Despite these challenges, the government’s case is not without strengths. Testimony from Combs’ former CFO, Derek Ferguson, detailed suspicious financial transactions, including an alleged $20,000 extortion payment related to sex tapes. Other evidence points to bribery and racketeering activities, which could bolster the prosecution’s case even if the sex trafficking charges prove difficult to sustain.

Atmosphere in the Courtroom

Observers describe the atmosphere in the courtroom as tense and unpredictable. At one point, a spectator was ejected for an outburst, and there have been allegations of bias against Diddy supporters in the gallery. Still, the defense appears to have a vocal base of support, and the daily dynamics shift as the trial progresses.

What’s Next?

With more testimony expected, including potentially more graphic allegations and violent episodes, the outcome remains uncertain. Federal prosecutors in the Southern District of New York have a 95% conviction rate, but the defense’s aggressive strategy and the apparent receptiveness of some jurors could complicate matters.

As the trial moves forward, the prosecution will need to solidify its narrative and overcome doubts about witness credibility, while the defense will continue to exploit inconsistencies and play to the jury’s perceptions.

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