By Jack Queen and Luc Cohen

NEW YORK (Reuters) – Sean “Diddy” Combs arrived to court on Friday, where a jury of 12 New Yorkers is set to be chosen in his racketeering and sex trafficking trial.

The rapper has pleaded not guilty to one count of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking, and two counts of transportation for prostitution—all felonies. If convicted, he could face decades or even life in prison.

At 55, Combs sported graying hair and a sweater over a white shirt as he greeted his defense lawyers upon entering U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian’s Lower Manhattan courtroom.

Over three days this week, Subramanian questioned nearly 100 prospective jurors on their knowledge of Combs’ case and any personal experiences with sexual assault. With input from defense lawyers and prosecutors, Subramanian dismissed those deemed unfit to serve and selected 45 candidates qualified to serve fairly and impartially.

On Friday, lawyers for each side will take turns striking candidates until a panel of 12 jurors and six alternates is formed—a strategic process with potential implications for the trial’s outcome.

Combs, a Harlem native who founded the influential record label Bad Boy Records and discovered iconic rappers like the Notorious B.I.G., has been held in a Brooklyn federal lockup since his arrest last September.

The charges signify a dramatic fall from grace for a music industry titan, once awarded a ceremonial key to New York City, known for extravagant parties with A-list celebrities.

Prosecutors from the Manhattan U.S. Attorney’s office allege that Combs used his business empire over two decades to entice women with promises of romantic relationships or financial support, later coercing them into drug-fueled sexual performances called “Freak Offs.” They assert he maintained control over his victims through drugging and blackmail. Allegations include kidnapping at gunpoint, arson with a Molotov cocktail, and various violent assaults dating back to the 1990s.

Combs’ legal team argues that prosecutors improperly seek to criminalize his “swinger lifestyle.” They plan to challenge the credibility of the accusers, suggesting financial incentives behind their allegations and inconsistencies in their accounts.

Judge Subramanian has stated the trial will last approximately eight weeks, with alternate jurors ready as backups. A unanimous verdict is required.

The trial will likely feature testimony from three or possibly four accusers, including Combs’ ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, a rhythm and blues artist.

Furthermore, Combs faces over 50 civil lawsuits for sexual assault, including one from a claimant alleging he assaulted them when they were only 10 years old. Combs has denied any wrongdoing in these cases, asserting that his accusers are attempting to capitalize financially on the situation.