Sean “Diddy” Combs lost his bid to delay trial, and jury selection begins today as celebrities he once partied with gather for the Met Gala. Combs appeared in court wearing glasses and a pullover after Judge Arun Subramanian allowed him to avoid prison attire during the proceedings. The judge also approved a written jury questionnaire but limited it to 30 questions.

The defense seeks insight into potential jurors’ views on topics including multiple sex partners, cheating, intimate partner violence, drug use, rap, and illegal firearm ownership. Prosecutors may call Jennifer Lopez to testify as they attempt to introduce evidence related to the 1999 Club NY shooting. Lopez and Combs fled the club after gunfire wounded three people.

Combs’ defense team denies all rape allegations and argues that he lives a consensual swinger lifestyle. Attorney Marc Agnifilo told the court that Combs’ behavior is legal and misunderstood. Prosecutors intend to show that Combs used his businesses to host “Freak Offs” involving male prostitutes and women allegedly coerced into sex acts.

At Combs’ last pretrial hearing, prosecutors said he rejected a plea deal. Federal prosecutor Madison Smyser confirmed the offer but declined to disclose the terms. Opening statements are scheduled for May 12.

Joining Nancy Grace today:

Additional Guest

Sydney Sumner – CrimeOnline Investigative Reporter

“Crime Stories with Nancy Grace” is also a national radio show on SiriusXM channel 111, airing for two hours daily starting at 12 p.m. EST. You can also subscribe and download the daily podcasts at iHeart Podcasts.

[Feature Photo: Sean “Diddy” Combs performs during the MTV Video Music Awards on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023, at the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J. (Photo by Charles Sykes/Invision/AP)]