A key witness in the federal sex trafficking case against Sean “Diddy” Combs has reportedly gone missing, just days before opening statements are due to begin.
US federal prosecutors, who are finalising jury selection in New York, say they have been unable to contact one of the five women expected to testify.
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The woman, identified as Victim-3, was due to give crucial evidence about her alleged abuse by Combs over a number of decades. Prosecutors allege Combs “sexually exploited” her over an extended period.
According to Daily Mail, the woman had planned to drop the pseudonym during her testimony.
However, assistant US attorney Maurene Comey — the daughter of former FBI director James Comey — told District Judge Arun Subramanian on Wednesday that her team had been unable to reach Victim-3 or her legal representative.
Combs’ defence lawyer, Teny Geragos, has since called for a decision by the end of the week on whether the prosecution still intends to call the witness.
The four other key witnesses include three Jane Does and singer Cassie Ventura, Combs’ former partner.
Ventura’s testimony is expected to form a central part of the prosecution case. She has previously alleged rape, physical violence and sex trafficking during her 11-year relationship with Combs between 2007 and 2018 — claims which now form part of the federal narrative around power, control and exploitation.
Opening statements in the trial are set for May 12.
Combs is facing five federal charges, including sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and transporting individuals for prostitution.
Jury selection is ongoing, with both sides finalising 12 jurors and six alternates for an anonymous jury this week.
As previously reported by 7NEWS.com.au, prospective jurors were shown a list of more than 100 names of people and places that may be mentioned during proceedings, and asked whether any would affect their ability to remain impartial.
The list shown to potential jurors included celebrities such as Michael B Jordan, Mike Myers and Kanye West — none of whom are implicated in the case or involved in any wrongdoing.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800respect.org.au.
