As the highly publicized trial of Sean 'Diddy' Combs approaches its opening statements set for May 12, 2025, a significant complication has arisen: a key witness identified as 'victim 3' has reportedly gone missing. This development has raised concerns among federal prosecutors, who have struggled to locate this central figure in the case, which centers around serious charges including sex trafficking and racketeering.
The missing witness does not reside in New York, where the trial is taking place. Maurene Comey, daughter of former FBI Director James Comey and a member of the U.S. Attorney's Office team, informed U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian of the difficulties in contacting 'victim 3' and her attorney. This witness was expected to provide “very personal and explosive details” regarding the alleged abuse she experienced at the hands of Combs, and had planned to testify without using a pseudonym.
In contrast, two other witnesses, referred to as 'victim 2' and 'victim 4', have been granted permission by the judge to testify under pseudonyms. Prosecutors have expressed concerns that if they cannot establish contact with 'victim 3', she may not appear in court, which could jeopardize their case against Combs.
Combs, a prominent figure in the hip-hop industry, faces a litany of charges, including operating his businesses like a racketeering enterprise. Prosecutors allege that he utilized his fame and wealth to coerce young women into sexually abusive situations, including orchestrating drug-fueled orgies dubbed “Freak Offs.” If convicted on all counts, Combs could face a life sentence in prison.
Last week, Combs rejected a plea deal that was offered by prosecutors, indicating his intention to fight the charges. Meanwhile, jury selection is ongoing, with both the prosecution and defense working to finalize their jury lists by today, May 9, 2025.
In related news, Cassie, Combs' ex-girlfriend, has been seen out and about in New York City, showcasing her baby bump as she enjoys her pregnancy with husband Alex Fine. Cassie, 38, was photographed on May 7 visiting a friend while the jury selection for Combs' trial was underway. The couple is expecting their third child together.
The timing of Cassie's public appearances coincides with the ongoing trial, where Combs has pleaded not guilty to all charges. A judge recently ruled that a 2016 video, which allegedly shows Combs assaulting Cassie by dragging her down a hotel hallway, can be presented as evidence in court. This video has been a focal point for the prosecution, which argues it exemplifies Combs' pattern of abusive behavior.
In light of the video’s release, Combs issued a public apology in May 2024, reflecting on his past actions. “It’s so difficult to reflect on the darkest times in your life, but sometimes you got to do that,” he stated on Instagram, admitting, “I was f--ked up. I hit rock bottom. But I make no excuses. My behavior on that video is inexcusable.” He expressed a commitment to becoming a better person, stating, “I take full responsibility for my actions in that video.”
Cassie has also spoken out about the impact of the video and the support she received from the public. “The outpouring of love has created a place for my younger self to settle and feel safe now, but this is only the beginning,” she wrote on Instagram last year. “Domestic Violence is THE issue. It broke me down to someone I never thought I would become. With a lot of hard work, I am better today, but I will always be recovering from my past.”
Adding to the legal turmoil surrounding Combs, federal agents executed search warrants on his properties in Los Angeles and Miami on March 25, 2025. The warrants, issued by the Southern District of New York, were part of an ongoing investigation into the allegations against him. Reports indicated that authorities seized electronic devices and discovered firearms during the searches.
On the same day, one of Combs' associates, Brendan Paul, was arrested for drug possession, further complicating the situation for Combs. Paul was later released after posting bond and accepted a plea deal in May 2025.
Combs was arrested in September 2024 at a New York hotel, with charges unsealed shortly thereafter. He faces accusations of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, and transportation to engage in prostitution. The indictment claims that Combs has abused and coerced women to satisfy his sexual desires over a decade.
Following his arrest, Combs was held at the Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center, where he was denied a $50 million bond. He was placed on suicide watch as a precautionary measure, a standard procedure for high-profile inmates, although he has since been removed from that status.
In a shocking development, comedian Jeff Wittek recently claimed to have attended one of Combs' infamous “freak off” parties in Miami, describing the environment as bizarre and chaotic. Wittek recounted witnessing live sexual acts during the party, further painting a picture of the controversial lifestyle surrounding Combs.
Further complicating matters, attorney Tony Buzbee announced in an October 2024 press conference that 120 new sexual assault allegations had been made against Combs, including claims involving minors. Buzbee revealed that one of the accusers was only nine years old at the time of the alleged assault.
In response to the allegations, Combs' attorney has maintained that he is innocent and that the accusations are part of a media circus designed to tarnish his reputation. “Mr. Combs is innocent and will continue to fight every single day to clear his name,” the attorney stated.
As the trial date approaches, the stakes are high for Combs, who is grappling with serious allegations that could lead to life imprisonment. The legal battles continue to unfold as the public watches closely, awaiting the next developments in a case that has captured national attention.
