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Sean "Diddy" Combs' federal trial on sex trafficking and racketeering charges has taken an unexpected turn — not only in courtroom strategy but also in visual perception. Appearing in a gray beard and sweater, his once-polished image has shifted. Experts say that shift could shape juror psychology.
The 55-year-old music mogul, known for a flashy persona and extravagant lifestyle, now cuts a more subdued figure behind courtroom walls. With no access to hair dye in jail, Combs' natural gray hair debuted in a courtroom sketch months ago. Now, jurors are witnessing it in real time. Jury consultant Alan Tuerkheimer noted, "The hope is that, given the lascivious nature of some of the alleged acts he participated in, the jury sees a more seasoned and grown-up version of his former self."
Criminal defense attorney Joshua Ritter echoed the sentiment. "One of the central questions [jurors] have in their head is, 'Could this person have committed these crimes?'" Ritter said. "If you're looking over at someone who appears gray — gray hair, gray beard, dressed in kind of a sweater — that might play at least a subconscious role."
Inside the courtroom, Combs' defense team has crafted a narrative that his behavior, while unconventional, was consensual and culturally normalized. "You might hear about kinky sex, which may make you uncomfortable," attorney Teny Geragos told the jury. "It may not be what you do in your bedroom... but you are here to judge whether the government actually proved what they charged him with."
Combs has pleaded not guilty to all charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. Prosecutors allege that he organized events dubbed "Freak Offs," coercing women into sexual acts with hired male sex workers. According to federal records, these charges stem from claims of manipulation, power imbalance, and transactional coercion.
In a Manhattan federal court, his lead attorney, Marc Agnifilo, emphasized that Combs' actions were rooted in a lifestyle — not criminal intent. "Part of the reason people think it's appropriate is because it's common," Agnifilo said, referencing the swinger subculture. "It's relevant to the defendant's intent."
Federal prosecutor Madison Smyser revealed Combs had rejected a plea deal prior to trial. Details of the offer were not disclosed. The prosecution argues that even if activities were normalized within certain circles, they crossed legal boundaries when coercion was involved.
As the trial continues under Judge Arun Subramanian's oversight, the contrast between Combs' current appearance and the serious allegations against him sets the tone for what could be one of the year's most complex celebrity court battles.