A juror in the sex trafficking trial of rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs has been dismissed for providing inconsistent information regarding his residence.
During the jury selection process, the juror stated on a questionnaire that he resided in the Bronx area of New York. However, he later informed a court staff member that he had moved in with his girlfriend in New Jersey.
On Friday, Judge Arun Subramanian noted “several inconsistencies” in the juror’s statements as reflected in court transcripts, which he suggested indicated a possible intent to be “deceptive” in seeking a place on the jury.
Attorneys for Combs contested the decision, claiming that the removal of a black male juror would result in “substantial prejudice” to their client.
The juror has been substituted with an alternative juror, a 57-year-old white father from Westchester.
Combs, age 55, has pleaded not guilty to charges related to sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation for prostitution.
The potential dismissal of the juror has been the topic of discussion among lawyers for the past week.
Chief prosecutor Maurene Comey requested the dismissal, citing what she termed a “lack of candour”.
The prosecution indicated that the juror had admitted to recently moving to New Jersey and had primarily been residing there throughout the trial.
In a closed-door session, the juror claimed he was staying in an apartment in the Bronx during the week for four to five nights for work and jury duty.
However, previously in a jury interview weeks earlier, he stated he lived in the Bronx with his fiancée and daughter.
At one point, he also mentioned living with an aunt, but later excluded that detail.
The judge remarked that he had identified “several inconsistencies” in the juror’s answers within the court records.
According to the judge, these inconsistencies suggested a tendency to “shade answers” and raised significant doubts about the juror’s “candour” and ability to adhere to instructions.
The judge affirmed that the presence of six alternate jurors would help maintain the “integrity” of the court, stating, “In this court’s view, removal of the juror is necessary.”
Combs’ attorney, Xavier Donaldson, challenged the judge’s position, pointing out that it is quite common for New Yorkers to move between the city and New Jersey.
He expressed concern that the court is equating inconsistencies with dishonesty.
“I believe he can follow instructions,” Donaldson added, noting that Juror No. 6 had been alert—unlike some others.
The defense’s primary concern centered on the juror’s race, with Donaldson highlighting that the jury’s diversity was the highest he had encountered in his 30-year career.
“This aspect is significant to my client and me,” Donaldson remarked, warning that dismissing the juror would represent “a step backward.”
“I typically don’t invoke the race issue unless necessary,” Donaldson stated.
Combs’ legal representatives requested a mistrial in the event of the juror’s dismissal.
On Monday, the judge remarked: “Nothing the juror can say at this point can undo the damage to his credibility.”
Eight men and four women were selected for the jury, complemented by six alternates. The trial is currently in its sixth week.
The prosecution plans to conclude its case this week, after which the defense will have the opportunity to present its witnesses.