A dramatic moment unfolded in a federal courtroom on Thursday as U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian threatened to remove music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs from his ongoing sex trafficking and racketeering trial over inappropriate behaviour directed at jurors. The warning came on Day 17 of the high-profile proceedings, with Judge Subramanian admonishing the 55-year-old defendant for allegedly flashing facial expressions and nodding at members of the jury during witness testimony — conduct the judge declared “absolutely unacceptable.” “Mr. Combs, this cannot happen again,” the judge stated firmly, after addressing defence attorney Marc Agnifilo, who assured the court, “No, Your Honor, it’s not going to happen again.” Courtroom artist Jane Rosenberg, who has been closely observing the trial, confirmed that Combs has been making visible facial gestures towards the jury since the early days of the trial — both affirming and disapproving, depending on the testimony being given. Several NBC News reporters also witnessed the conduct. Combs, who was arrested earlier this year, is facing a range of serious federal charges including sex trafficking, prostitution, racketeering conspiracy, and sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. The judge’s stern warning came on the same day a pivotal witness took the stand — a woman identified only by the pseudonym “Jane.” In her emotional testimony, Jane described a disturbing pattern of manipulation and coercion in her relationship with Combs, including what she called “drug-fueled sex marathons” and repeated pressure to engage in sexual activity with other men while Combs watched. Jane, who spoke in a whisper to an attentive jury, said she had made it clear to Combs that she did not want to sleep with other men. But she felt obligated due to his financial and emotional control over her life. She became visibly emotional while recounting how the dynamic shifted in May 2021, when Combs began to share fantasies involving her with other men. What began as a single incident quickly escalated, she testified, claiming that 90% of the sex during their relationship involved other men while Combs observed. “No… just Sean,” she whispered when asked if she wanted to have sex with others. Her account echoed earlier testimony from R&B singer and former girlfriend Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, with both women describing prolonged “hotel nights” and a desire to rush through encounters to escape the situation. To protect Jane’s identity, the court has implemented strict anonymity measures, including a ban on any visual depiction or physical description that could reveal who she is. As the trial continues, tensions remain high — both inside and outside the courtroom — in what is shaping up to be one of the most explosive celebrity trials in recent memory.
