Hours before the start of Sean “Diddy” Combs’s sex-trafficking trial, a crucial setback has occurred. The U.S. Attorney’s office for the Southern District of New York has yet to make contact with one of the key witnesses, known as Victim-3, who is set to testify against the music mogul.
This missing witness threatens to disrupt the trial, which is scheduled to begin soon before Judge Arun Subramanian.
The Missing Witness
Victim-3, who is shielded from public identification, had previously confirmed her intention to testify about Combs’s alleged sexual exploitation. However, she has now gone silent, leading to concerns over her safety.
Law enforcement sources suggest that Victim-3 may have gone into hiding due to fear for her personal well-being, though details remain unclear. The prosecution is under pressure as the trial approaches, and defense attorneys are expected to request a mistrial or a delay if Victim-3’s absence is not addressed.
The Impact on the Trial
The defense team sees the situation as an opportunity to challenge the case. Without Victim-3’s testimony, one of the central allegations against Combs could be significantly weakened.
The defense has already indicated that they might push for a mistrial or ask for more time to adjust their strategy. If the trial proceeds without her, the prosecution could face serious difficulties in presenting its case.
Other Key Testimonies
If the trial moves forward, Combs is expected to face testimony from his former long-term girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, also known as Victim-1. Ventura, who is currently pregnant, previously settled a lawsuit against Combs for millions of dollars in 2023.
Her testimony is anticipated to provide crucial evidence, though Combs’s legal team has disputed claims related to her alleged abuse.
Trial Developments
Combs’s defense has already conceded that he committed domestic violence during his relationship with Ventura, but they argue that the violence was mutual.
They also plan to assert that many of the controversial activities described by the prosecution, including Combs’s so-called “swinger” lifestyle, were consensual. Combs has denied all charges of racketeering, sex trafficking, and more.
As the trial approaches, tensions are high, with the missing witness adding further complexity to an already controversial case. The outcome of this trial remains uncertain, depending on whether Victim-3 can be located or if the judge allows the trial to proceed without her testimony.
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