Sean “Diddy” Combs is walking a tightrope in court, as the judge overseeing his high-profile federal trial has warned him against attempting to influence the jury. On Thursday, June 5, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian threatened to remove Diddy from court after observing behavior that appeared to violate courtroom conduct.
According to Us Weekly, the judge reprimanded the rapper after he allegedly tried to engage with jurors. “There’d be no interaction with the jury whatsoever,” Judge Subramanian stated firmly. “Otherwise, I will remove your client from the courtroom.”
This isn’t the first time the court addressed the issue. Judge Subramanian noted that the rule had already been made clear, but Diddy continued to display behavior that raised concerns. “There was a line of questioning where your client was nodding vigorously and looking at the jury,” the judge added. “There should be no efforts to have any interactions with this jury.”
Diddy’s attorney, Marc Agnifilo, responded swiftly, assuring the court that the conduct would not happen again. However, courtroom observers described Diddy’s demeanor as expressive and at times distracting. One juror was even seen laughing at something the defendant did, according to a courtroom eyewitness cited by Us Weekly.
Courtroom sketch artist Jane Rosenberg added further insight, claiming that Diddy had been making various facial expressions throughout the trial — sometimes appearing supportive, other times dismissive — depending on the nature of the testimony being presented.
The trial, which began in May, stems from Diddy’s arrest in September 2024 on federal charges that include sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Despite multiple attempts, the court has denied Diddy’s bail requests, and he remains in custody as the proceedings continue.
With tension building in court, the spotlight remains on Diddy’s every move — and one misstep could have serious consequences in front of the jury and the bench alike.