Jay-Z could be subpoenaed to testify in Diddy's trial, reveals former prosecutor
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: As the legal battle surrounding Sean "Diddy" Combs unfolds, speculation is growing about who might eventually be called to testify.
Diddy, facing severe federal charges for sex trafficking and racketeering, has been fighting to secure bail while awaiting his upcoming trial.
However, with each passing day, the situation grows more complex, and now there’s a possibility that some of his closest celebrity friends, including Jay-Z, might be required to testify, according to a report by Perez Hilton.
Jay-Z could be subpoenaed as the case against Diddy moves forward
According to Neama Rahmani, a former prosecutor and current president of West Coast Trial Lawyers, there’s a chance that Jay-Z, along with other high-profile figures, could be subpoenaed as the case against Diddy moves forward.
In an exclusive interview with The US Sun, Rahmani explained that while it’s possible, celebrities like Jay-Z could invoke their Fifth Amendment right to avoid taking the stand.
"Jay-Z and other celebrities can be subpoenaed, but they will almost certainly assert their Fifth Amendment privilege against self-incrimination and refuse to testify," Rahmani stated.
This legal strategy would allow them to avoid answering any questions that might implicate them in wrongdoing.
However, there’s more to the story, and the stakes could be much higher for some individuals depending on their involvement in Diddy's activities.
The Fifth Amendment defense might not be the ultimate safeguard if more evidence points to personal involvement in the alleged crimes.
Rahmani warned that celebrities with knowledge of Diddy’s alleged actions or those who may have directly participated in illegal activities should be particularly concerned.
If they took part in any of the reported sex acts connected to the trafficking ring, they could face serious legal repercussions themselves.
"People who participated in the sex acts should especially be afraid because they can also be charged with sex trafficking or prostitution, depending on whether they used threats or force against the victims. If Jay-Z is just a witness who didn’t participate in the sex acts, he may be subpoenaed to testify at trial," Rahmani added.
Diddy has been at the center of Hollywood’s social scene for years
This revelation has undoubtedly caused unease among Diddy’s famous associates.
For years, the music mogul has been at the center of Hollywood’s social scene, cultivating close relationships with stars like Usher, Justin Bieber, and Rick Ross, among others.
But Rahmani is careful to note that these celebrities won’t be called to testify unless they are directly involved in criminal activities.
"But I don’t think [Jay-Z] will be subpoenaed if he was a participant. He’ll either be charged or not called to testify. If you’re a prosecutor, you don’t want witnesses who participated in criminal activity but are getting a pass," she asserted.
Diddy’s case is significant not just because of the charges themselves but also because of the major players involved.
For decades, Diddy has built an empire in the entertainment industry, gaining wealth, influence, and powerful friends along the way. However, his world has been shaken by the recent charges of sex trafficking and racketeering.
Former prosecutor Rahmani has been closely following Diddy’s legal battles. He commented on the singer's previous accusations of abuse, including those made by his ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura.
Cassie initially filed a lawsuit against Diddy, accusing him of rape and physical abuse, but the case was swiftly settled. Even so, the damage to Diddy’s public image was already done.
Rahmani pointed out how a particular video of Diddy allegedly assaulting Cassie played a key role in the rapid collapse of his public reputation.
"The video of him beating Cassie was so disturbing that he’s already lost the PR battle and he’s probably the most toxic person in America right now. I am surprised it took prosecutors six months to charge him after his Los Angeles and Miami homes were raided," he stated.