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Sean “Diddy” Combs has drawn the ire of a federal judge overseeing his high-profile trial after allegedly trying to influence the jury through nonverbal gestures during proceedings.
During a hearing on Thursday, June 5, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian firmly reprimanded the rapper, warning that further disruptions could result in his removal from the courtroom.
“There’d be no interaction with the jury whatsoever,” Judge Subramanian declared, according to US Weekly. “Otherwise, I will remove your client from the courtroom.”
The judge explained that this rule had already been made clear, but Diddy seemed to disregard it. “There was a line of questioning where your client was nodding vigorously and looking at the jury,” he said. “There should be no efforts to have any interactions with this jury.”
In response, Diddy’s attorney, Marc Agnifilo, assured the court that the conduct would not continue.
Observers inside the courtroom reported that one juror even appeared to laugh at something Combs did during the session, people noted. Meanwhile, courtroom sketch artist Jane Rosenberg described the music mogul’s expressions throughout the trial as a mix of supportive and dismissive, depending on the testimony being presented.
The ongoing trial began in May following Combs’ arrest in September 2024. He faces serious federal charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy. Combs has pleaded not guilty to all counts and remains in custody after multiple failed attempts to secure bail.
The warning from Judge Subramanian adds a new layer of tension to a case already drawing intense media scrutiny. With testimony ongoing and emotions running high, the judge’s firm stance signals a desire to maintain order and impartiality in the courtroom.
Diddy’s conduct in court — whether interpreted as expressive or inappropriate — may ultimately have consequences beyond just legal strategy, especially if further attempts to engage the jury are perceived. The trial continues with more witnesses expected to take the stand in the coming weeks.
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