Prosecutors in the Sean “Diddy” Combs sex trafficking trial say a key witness has gone missing just days before the trial begins, threatening to upend their case.
NEW YORK — A high-profile sex trafficking trial involving music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs has taken a dramatic twist, as federal prosecutors revealed that one of their key witnesses has gone missing just days before opening statements.
Prosecutors informed a Manhattan judge this week they’ve been unable to reach “Victim 3,” a crucial accuser who was expected to deliver highly personal and damaging testimony without a pseudonym.
According to the Daily Mail, the woman, who lives outside New York, had planned to testify about “very personal and explosive” abuse allegedly committed by Combs.
Maurene Comey, a lead federal prosecutor and daughter of former FBI Director James Comey, told U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian that repeated attempts to contact the witness and her attorney have failed.
“If we can’t reach her soon, she may not testify at all,” Comey said.
Defense attorney Teny Geragos pressed the court for a firm answer on whether Victim 3 will be called to the stand.
Two other accusers, Victim 2 and Victim 4, will testify under pseudonyms.
Combs, 55, is accused of running his empire through violent means — including kidnapping, arson, bribery, and sex trafficking.
Jury selection is ongoing, with both sides expected to finalize selections by next week Monday.
