Diddy Trial: Why You Can't Watch Sean Combs' High-Profile Case
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
Despite widespread interest, the public won't be able to watch Sean "Diddy" Combs' trial unfold in real time. No video or livestream of the trial will be made available, leaving many wondering why one of the biggest celebrity cases of the year is happening out of view.
Why Is Diddy on Trial?
Diddy has been accused of operating a sex trafficking ring for over 20 years. He faces litigation in a high-profile legal saga that has attracted nationwide attention. Combs was charged in Manhattan Federal Court with sex trafficking and other federal offenses.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said in a September press release: "As alleged in the Indictment, for years, Sean Combs used the business empire he controlled to sexually abuse and exploit women, as well as to commit other acts of violence and obstruction of justice."
Earlier this year, a federal investigation into Combs also resulted in a pair of raids on his homes in Los Angeles and Miami by the Department of Homeland Security. The agency later confirmed the raids were connected to a broader sex trafficking investigation.
In a courtroom sketch, Sean "Diddy" Combs, far left, looks on from the defense table with his attorneys, as a prospective juror, far right, answers questions posed by Judge Arun Subramanian, center, at Manhattan federal...
In a courtroom sketch, Sean "Diddy" Combs, far left, looks on from the defense table with his attorneys, as a prospective juror, far right, answers questions posed by Judge Arun Subramanian, center, at Manhattan federal court on May 5, 2025. More
Elizabeth Williams via AP
What Charges Is Diddy Facing?
At this stage, there is a five-count indictment against Diddy that accuses him of sex trafficking, racketeering, forced labor and transporting individuals for the purpose of prostitution. The 16-page indictment was unveiled in September 2024.
Combs has pleaded not guilty to the charges and denies any wrongdoing.
Why Isn't There a Diddy Trial Livestream?
Unlike some high-profile cases, there is no public video feed or live broadcast of proceedings related to Combs' legal battles. This is because his cases are playing out in the federal court system, where cameras are broadly prohibited.
Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 53, adopted in 1946, prohibits all "electronic media coverage." This directly applies to Combs' federal charges.
Why Is Broadcasting Prohibited in Court?
The federal court system has long enforced rules banning the use of cameras inside courtrooms. The policy is based in part on concerns over maintaining the integrity of the proceedings, avoiding media influence over jurors or witnesses, and protecting the privacy of individuals involved.
While some state courts have adopted more lenient policies—permitting audio and video recording under certain guidelines—federal courts remain more restrictive.
Alternatives to Watching the Trial
As there's no livestream, members of the public must rely on traditional courtroom access or post-hearing summaries.
For individuals seeking general legal filings, accessing PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records) system may be the best option, as it allows users to view filings, motions, and other court documents. However, some registration and payment may be required, and case documentation is not guaranteed.
Although there is no broadcast, public interest in the case remains high. As proceedings continue, updates will likely remain available through traditional reporting.
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