Federal prosecutors in the high-profile case against music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs are confronting a major challenge as one of their central witnesses may not appear in court. The trial, which stems from a sweeping indictment alleging sex trafficking and other serious crimes, could be significantly impacted by the absence.

According to reports from, a woman identified only as "Victim-3" in the federal indictment was expected to deliver pivotal testimony accusing Combs of coercing her into sexual acts. However, during the jury selection phase, prosecutors informed the court they’ve been unable to contact the woman or her legal representative. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maurene Comey told the judge on May 7, 2025, that the accuser's lawyer has been dealing with unspecified “personal issues,” complicating communication.

Uncertainty Around Key Witness Threatens Prosecution's Strategy

Comey further explained that the woman is not based locally and may fail to appear even if compelled by subpoena. 

“We do not know whether she intends to appear,” she said. “We are trying very hard to find out.” This revelation has raised concerns about the strength and cohesion of the prosecution's case.

Despite this setback, prosecutors confirmed that three additional women are still prepared to testify against Combs. Two of them will testify using pseudonyms to protect their identities.

The federal indictment, originally unsealed in 2024, paints a disturbing picture of alleged criminal activity spanning more than a decade. It accuses Combs of orchestrating a racketeering conspiracy involving sex trafficking, forced labor, bribery, arson, kidnapping, and obstruction of justice.

Combs has strongly denied all allegations. The early days of the trial have focused on jury selection, but the uncertainty surrounding this key witness is already casting a shadow over proceedings.