United States District Judge Arun Subramanian expressed his strong disapproval over Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ attempt to engage with the jury panel during the ongoing testimony in his sex trafficking trial. This stern reprimand was directed at his defence attorneys, during a court proceeding last Thursday.
The courtroom scenario took an unexpected turn when Combs reportedly communicated non-verbally with the jury, prompting the overseeing judge to make it clear that such behavior was not only highly inappropriate but also completely intolerable.
The presiding judge, Subramanian, unambiguously voiced his discontentment over Combs’ actions. He didn’t mince words when he indicated the absolute non-acceptance of the defendant trying to establish any form of non-verbal communication with jury members in the midst of an ongoing testimony.
Judge Subramanian was explicit in providing Combs’ a clear warning. If Combs does not strictly adhere to courtroom etiquette, Subramanian made it clear that he would instruct the jury accordingly about the inappropriateness of his behavior. Failing this, it could even potentially lead to Combs’ expulsion from the courtroom.
The trial against music magnate Combs, taking place in New York, has entered its fourth week. A myriad of charges have been recorded against him, which he has categorically denied under oath on all counts.
Combs has officially declared his innocence by pleading not guilty to the multiple charges levied against him. The list includes one count of racketeering conspiracy, along with two counts each of forceful sex trafficking and transportation for the conduct of prostitution under coercion and fraud.
The implications of a conviction could be severe for the music mogul. If he is found to be guilty of even a single count, he might have to bear with an extended term of incarceration.
This stern reproach from the judge was made before the jury was scheduled to reconvene post their lunch break. Combs, attired in a casual oversized cream sweater and khaki pants, had maintained active participation in his defence discussions throughout the course of the day.
Throughout the day, Combs manifested a keen interest in his defense strategy, proactively exchanging notes and holding discussions with his legal team, a fact that was clearly noticeable in the courtroom.
One of the key moments of the testimony that was delivered on Thursday involved Bryana Bongolan. Bongolan, who happens to be a friend of Combs’ long-term partner, Casandra Ventura, was summoned for cross-examination.
At the cross examination, Bongolan offered insights about an alarming event that allegedly occurred in 2016. Combs was reportedly involved in a dangerous act involving Bongolan herself, breeding a sense of intrigue and tension in the courtroom.