Lawyers for hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs are requesting that prospective jurors in his upcoming sex trafficking trial be questioned on their views about sensitive topics like sex, drugs, and violence. The defense team’s proposal includes a 72-question questionnaire to be distributed to individuals summoned for the trial, scheduled to begin on May 5 in Manhattan federal court.
The questions would ask jurors about their openness to viewing explicit or violent videos and their views on people with multiple sexual partners. The defense argues that this information is critical for ensuring an impartial jury, given the nature of the charges against Combs. However, prosecutors have objected, calling the questionnaire overly extensive and arguing that such inquiries should be made by the judge in person during voir dire.
Combs faces allegations of using his power and influence to coerce women into sex acts over two decades, with prosecutors citing disturbing evidence, including a video showing Combs allegedly assaulting his former girlfriend, Cassie. The defense, meanwhile, argues that the charges unfairly target consensual adult sexual activity and that jurors should be allowed to respond freely about the media coverage surrounding Combs.
The judge has instructed that the jury selection process begin at the end of April, with opening statements expected to follow on May 12.
Source: Swifteradio.com.
