NEW YORK (Diya TV) — As the sex trafficking and racketeering trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs enters its third week in Manhattan federal court, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian has emerged as a pivotal figure in one of the most closely watched criminal trials in recent memory. With a projected conclusion by July 4, the case has already featured dramatic testimony from high-profile witnesses and raised novel legal questions about the use of racketeering laws in a case centered around alleged sexual abuse.
Judge Subramanian, described as calm but commanding, has kept a firm grip on the courtroom proceedings. Known for his measured demeanor and occasional dry humor—he recently advised jurors to avoid discussing the case over a long weekend by suggesting they “watch the Knicks avenge their Game One loss”—Subramanian has allowed expansive testimony that prosecutors say is necessary to prove their sweeping case under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), People magazine reported.
At the heart of the government’s case is the allegation that Combs, the 55-year-old founder of Bad Boy Records, led a criminal enterprise dubbed the “Combs Enterprise.” Prosecutors allege this group of employees and associates was involved in prostitution, forced labor, and other crimes going back to 2008. While Combs is not charged with every alleged act mentioned in court, the RICO law allows prosecutors to introduce evidence of so-called “predicate acts” that establish a pattern of illegal activity within an enterprise.
So far, jurors have heard from a range of witnesses, including Combs’ ex-girlfriend, Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, who testified that he was a serial abuser prone to violent outbursts. Rapper Kid Cudi claimed Combs broke into his home and may have been behind the torching of his car. A hotel security guard recalled being offered a bribe after witnessing Combs’ assault of Ventura, and a former assistant and chef recounted troubling behavior in his inner circle. Subramanian has allowed much of this testimony over objections from Combs’ legal team, who argue it amounts to a “bad act free-for-all.”
“This case is becoming sort of a bad act free-for-all,” defense attorney Marc Agnifilo said during a May 19 sidebar conversation outside the jury’s presence, objecting to testimony from Combs’ former chef.
But prosecutors argue the evidence reveals the “means and methods” of a criminal enterprise. “RICO allows you to bring in the bigger picture,” said Bobby Taghavi, a former prosecutor, in People. “His lifestyle, his power, his anger issues—the 360-degree view of his conduct.”
Combs has pleaded not guilty to one count of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking, and two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution. If convicted, he faces 15 years to life in prison.
Legal experts say applying RICO in a case largely focused on sexual misconduct is rare but not unprecedented. In 2021, R. Kelly was convicted under similar legal theories. “This could show Combs was not just an abusive person but the leader of a criminal enterprise carrying out commercial sex using weapons and blackmail,” attorney Michelle Simpson Tuegel told People.
Subramanian’s steady hand has kept the trial on track. Born in Pittsburgh to Indian immigrant parents, he earned praise as a civil litigator before joining the bench. He once helped the parents of murdered DNC staffer Seth Rich settle a high-profile defamation lawsuit, then insisted on paying for the celebratory dinner himself. Known for his humility—he reportedly bought his judicial robe online—Subramanian remains focused on ensuring a fair and orderly trial.
The jury of 12 must unanimously agree on any conviction. The defense is expected to call its witnesses after the prosecution rests. Until then, all eyes remain on the courtroom where Judge Subramanian presides with quiet authority, navigating a landmark case that could redefine how RICO laws apply to modern celebrity empires.
