American rap mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs was seen reading a Bible in court on Monday, just before the start of jury selection in his high-profile federal human trafficking trial at the U.S. District Court in Manhattan.
The 55-year-old music and business icon quietly read from the Bible while seated in the courtroom, setting a somber tone as proceedings began. He put the Bible aside shortly before the selection process for jurors commenced.
Combs faces a string of serious federal charges, including racketeering, sex trafficking, fraud, and transporting individuals for prostitution. Prosecutors allege that he operated a criminal enterprise involving close associates and business partners who are accused of luring and exploiting women through various means.
Among the alleged victims is his former girlfriend, singer Cassie Ventura, who is expected to be a key witness for the prosecution.
The trial is expected to last eight weeks. If convicted, Combs could face a life sentence. He is currently being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn as he awaits the trial’s outcome.
