Diddy is pushing to have the government’s main expert witness removed from his federal case, criticizing her as a storyteller focusing on emotions rather than facts.
Sean “Diddy” Combs is seeking to exclude Dr. Dawn Hughes, a forensic clinical psychologist, from testifying for the prosecution, alleging that she lacks concrete evidence and instead relies on subjective opinions and reused arguments.
According to Diddy's legal team, Hughes is planning to discuss “coercive control” without having conducted interviews with the accusers or proper psychological assessments, making her testimony more narrative-driven than expert analysis.
Diddy's lawyers argue that Hughes' testimony is biased and could unjustly portray him as a violent individual before any solid evidence is presented in court. They are concerned that her use of the term “coercive control” may unduly influence the jurors and predetermine their perception of the case.
The defense team accuses the prosecution of trying to insinuate guilt through Hughes’ generalized explanations of abuser behavior, using her testimony as a way to manipulate emotions rather than present objective evidence.
Echoing concerns about her past involvement in high-profile cases, Diddy’s legal team questions the true intention behind Hughes’ testimony and highlights potential bias.
Hughes is expected to shed light on the behaviors of abuse victims, explaining why they may delay reporting, remain in contact with their abuser, or defend them. While the government argues that this insight helps in understanding victim behavior, Diddy’s team believes it does not apply to his case.
Diddy is facing charges including sex trafficking and racketeering, with his trial scheduled to commence on May 5.