Disgraced music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs is facing opening statements in his federal s£x trafficking trial in Manhattan, with his former girlfriend, singer Cassie Ventura, expected to be among the trial’s early witnesses.

The defense has indicated it will argue that Combs and Ventura were involved in a relationship marked by "mutual violence," as part of its strategy to counter the prosecution’s narrative.

However, a complication has emerged for prosecutors: one of their central witnesses, referred to as "Victim 3," has reportedly gone missing. Authorities say they have been unable to reach her and believe she is unlikely to appear in court. The unnamed woman does not reside in New York, where the trial is taking place.

Prosecutors allege that Combs orchestrated a network of drug-fueled group s£xual encounters, using violence and coercion to maintain control over the women involved. He faces multiple charges, including racketeering, s£x trafficking, and transportation for purposes of prostitution.

Combs’ legal team argues that prosecutors are attempting to criminalize what they describe as an extravagant, party-centered lifestyle indulgent, perhaps, but not unlawful.