Diddy trial update: Jury flags defiant juror during deliberations

Sean "Diddy" Combs’ trial on charges including sex trafficking and racketeering is currently underway in New York. As per new reports, the deliberations that started on July 1 have already led to tension in the jury room.

According to the Guardian, the jury in Diddy's case is made up of twelve members, which includes eight men and four women. On July 1, the jury started the deliberations to decide whether Diddy is guilty or not guilty of the charges. However, Judge Arun Subramanian, who is overseeing the trial, got a short note from the jury just a couple of hours after the deliberation began.

As reported by TMZ, Arun Subramanian said in a statement:

"We have received a note from the jury. We have a juror, Juror 25, who we believe cannot follow your honor's instructions."

Juror 25 is reportedly a 51-year-old man with a background in veterinary science and a Ph.D. in molecular biology.

The jury received a message back from Judge Subramanian after almost half an hour, advising them to solve their differences and reach a decision while following the legal instructions. As per his latest instruction, the jury will be picking a main lead, also called a foreperson, who will be further leading the jury group discussion.

Additionally, the members of the jury have been instructed to keep their opinions out of social media.

Diddy and his lawyer's reactions to the jury's note

After Judge Arun Subramanian disclosed the development concerning Juror 25 in the courtroom, rapper Sean Combs and his legal team — including lead attorney Marc Agnifilo — huddled together to discuss the matter. Prosecutor Maureen Comey said, as reported by TMZ:

"It is important not to include any information about what is going on in the jury room."

Defense attorney Marc Agnifilo urged the jury to remain calm and avoid rushing to conclusions, noting that deliberations had only just begun.

As per the judge, Diddy can only be found guilty if all 12 jurors agree that he carried out a minimum of two serious crimes. These reportedly include sex trafficking, kidnapping, bribery, drug dealing, and witness tampering.

After the first day of discussions, the jury had not reached a final decision. It also remains unclear whether the jury was leaning toward a guilty or not guilty verdict, or which specific instructions Juror 25 was unable to follow. The deliberations are reported to start again on July 2.

Also Read: Judge Subramanian clarifies acts linked to Sean Comb’s racketeering case

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