We’ve been following this closely, and frankly, the most anticipated part for us is just how many more celebrity names are going to surface. It feels like that’s really what everyone is focused on.
Diddy, whose real name is Shawn Combs, has pled not guilty to all counts against him. He insists that any hookups were consensual. However, prosecutors are alleging that he coerced people into drug-fueled parties using threats and violence.
Right now, the jury selection process is underway in Manhattan federal court in New York. Potential jurors are being presented with a list of names – people and places that might come up during the trial.
The first celebrities to be named as jury selection started were comedian Mike Myers and actor Michael B. Jordan. A potential juror, who is a licensed massage therapist, knew them only through their acting. The judge noted that this list of names runs for several pages, comparing it to an “appendix from the Lord of the Rings” due to its length. This suggests potentially hundreds of Hollywood figures could be mentioned. Just because someone is named doesn’t mean they are accused of anything or took part in anything inappropriate.
As the process continued, other names surfaced on the list presented to potential jurors, including Kanye West, Michelle Williams from Destiny’s Child, actress Lauren London, rapper Kid Cudi, Dallas Austin, Cassie Ventura, and Dawn Richard.
It’s interesting to see why some of these names might appear. Kid Cudi was reportedly romantically linked to Diddy’s ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura. Ventura is alleged to have accused Diddy of threatening to explode Kid Cudi’s car, and Kid Cudi’s vehicle later allegedly did explode. Both Cassie Ventura and Dawn Richard have sued Diddy. However, it’s not immediately clear why names like Michelle Williams, Michael B. Jordan, or Mike Myers are on the list. There’s a brief segment in one of Mike Myers’ Austin Powers movies that makes fun of the music mogul, which could be a possible connection, but it’s not confirmed.
The judge has explained the trafficking and racketeering conspiracy charges to potential jurors. Diddy is presumed innocent as he has pled not guilty. He’s been held in a federal lockup in Brooklyn since his arrest. He appeared in court wearing a sweater and slacks, which the judge allowed instead of jail clothing. His hair and goatee are nearly fully gray now, as dye isn’t allowed in jail.
A significant piece of evidence that has already been mentioned to jurors is a video allegedly showing the hip-hop mogul assaulting his girlfriend at the time. Some potential jurors who saw a still image described it as “damning evidence”. That specific potential juror was rejected from the courtroom.
Another report today referenced the thousands of bottles of baby oil that were confiscated. There’s now a report that the reason the FBI seized those bottles is because they may have been spiked with GHB, the date rape drug.
The trial is expected to last at least 8 weeks. Federal courtrooms don’t allow electronic recording, so sketch artists will be providing the public’s view of the proceedings. If convicted, Diddy faces decades in prison.
On a different note, and this is just our opinion, but we still think Diddy might be operating as some kind of government or “fed” asset, perhaps to gather information on powerful people in Hollywood. We don’t have evidence for this, but things like the quick change in Usher’s political endorsement after potential pressure make you wonder if files are being held. It’s all pretty odd.
We’ll be covering this trial extensively as it unfolds starting next week with opening statements. Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss any updates because this is shaping up to be absolutely wild.
Also, on a personal note, we’re pushing hard to hit our sales goal for the coffee gift boxes by Friday. Picking one up is an amazing way to support the channel and get some fantastic coffee and treats, perfect for Mother’s Day. We definitely need your help between now and Friday. If you’ve already bought one, please leave a review – they are really important. There are only 81 left to hit today’s goal!
