EntertainmentJuror Dismissed in Sean 'Diddy' Combs Case Despite Defense Objections Over Race

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Juror Dismissed in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Case Despite Defense Objections Over Race

A juror in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ ongoing sex trafficking trial has been removed from the panel due to discrepancies in his stated residency. As reported by the BBC, Judge Arun Subramanian dismissed the juror—identified as juror no. 6—after uncovering “several inconsistencies” regarding where he lived. During jury selection, the juror claimed he resided in the Bronx, New York. However, he later informed a court staff member that he had recently moved to New Jersey with his girlfriend.

Defense attorneys for Combs strongly opposed the juror’s dismissal, arguing that removing one of only two Black male jurors would result in substantial prejudice and compromise the racial diversity of the jury.

The issue surrounding the juror’s eligibility first arose last week, when lead prosecutor Maurene Comey called for his dismissal, citing a “lack of candor,” according to the Mirror. Judge Subramanian shared these concerns after further investigation. For this trial, jurors must reside within the Southern District of New York, which includes the Bronx, Manhattan, and parts of the Hudson Valley. Juror no. 6 has since been replaced by a 57-year-old man from Westchester.

Defense lawyer Xavier Donaldson emphasized that the juror’s removal diminishes the representational balance of the jury.

Sean Combs faces multiple serious charges, including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transporting individuals for the purpose of prostitution. If convicted on all counts, he could receive a life sentence. He has pleaded not guilty.

Possible Dismissal of Another Juror Raises Additional Concerns

In a new development, another juror may also face dismissal. TMZ reported that this juror received a suspicious text message from an unknown number asking if he was juror no. 6. The message came shortly after news of the original juror’s removal began circulating.

The juror stated he did not recognize the number. Judge Subramanian, after being informed, expressed concern about potential misconduct, as the communication could imply that jury rules were violated by discussing trial matters with unauthorized individuals. The judge noted that this matter would be addressed after resolving the dismissal of juror no. 6.

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