Jurors deliberating in the trial of Sean “P. Diddy” Combs sent a note to the courtroom expressing concerns about one panelist’s ability to follow judicial instructions. The note, addressed to Judge Arun Subramanian, was first reviewed by prosecutors before being handed to defense attorney Marc Agnifilo.
Combs was then brought back into the courtroom to read the message before awaiting the judge’s return. The note, filling one-third of a lined sheet, stated: “We have a juror, No. 25, who we are concerned cannot follow your honor’s instructions.” This followed an earlier procedural note naming Juror No. 5 as the foreperson.
The foreperson requested that the judge either speak with the panel or interview the juror in question. Judge Subramanian responded by urging jurors to continue deliberations while reminding them of their duty to adhere to legal instructions.
Earlier in the day, alternate jurors were dismissed but instructed to remain on standby in case of emergencies during deliberations. The judge thanked them for their service, saying, “It’s the very least I can do for your immense service in this case.” Jury selection, which began May 5, initially seated 12 jurors and six alternates, though one juror was later dismissed and replaced, according to The Mirror US.
If Juror No. 25 is removed, an alternate would be summoned, requiring their return to the Daniel Patrick Moynihan courthouse. Judge Subramanian spent much of the morning delivering instructions, cautioning jurors: “Actions may speak louder than words.” He also advised them to weigh witness credibility carefully, including those granted immunity or testifying under pseudonyms.
Regarding Combs’ decision not to testify, the judge clarified: “The defendant had no responsibility to testify, and he did not. You must not attach any significance to that.” Deliberations could extend beyond the court’s usual 5 p.m. closing, with no set time limit, potentially lasting days or weeks.
Combs faces five charges across three federal indictments, including sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and transportation for prostitution. He has pleaded not guilty and denies all allegations, including those in civil lawsuits.
High-profile trials often see jury tensions. Earlier this month, Harvey Weinstein’s retrial jurors reported “playground stuff”—petty conflicts—before delivering a mixed verdict, convicting him on one count while acquitting him on another.
The outcome underscores the unpredictability of jury dynamics in closely watched cases. As deliberations continue, all eyes remain on whether Juror No. 25 will be dismissed—and how the panel’s final decision will shape Combs’ legal fate.