Jennifer Lopez to be questioned in Diddy trial as 1999 club shooting evidence contested by defence lawyers

Sean “Diddy” Combs is pushing to exclude references to a 1999 Manhattan nightclub shooting in which he was accused of firing a gun, as prosecutors prepare for his sex trafficking and racketeering trial.

Jennifer Lopez, Diddy's former partner, who was present during the incident, may be mentioned in court proceedings as the legal teams battle over admissible evidence.

On 27 December 1999, Diddy and Lopez were present at Club New York in Manhattan when gunfire broke out, injuring three people including Natania Reuben, who sustained facial injuries.

Photo: Shutterstock

Both stars were arrested at the time, though Lopez was never charged, and Diddy was later acquitted of all related charges.

In 2000 also, Lopez faced scrutiny after being photographed arguing with Diddy in a nightclub on the same night he was accused of assaulting a minor.

Photo: Coleman-Rayner

Prosecutors argue the nightclub incident demonstrates a pattern of violent conduct, which Diddy's legal team strongly opposes. His lawyers describe one key witness's claims—alleging Diddy attempted to bribe him to take the blame—as a ‘fantastical assumption.’”

Diddy's team also seeks to exclude a 2016 video showing him allegedly assaulting singer Cassie Ventura, arguing the footage is distorted, edited, and unauthenticated. Forensic analysis presented by the defence claims the clip was significantly sped up and may mislead jurors.

In addition, the defence is asking the court to dismiss testimony from a third alleged victim, arguing it would unfairly bias the jury. They claim the government is attempting to paint a decades-long portrait of Diddy as a criminal, regardless of the specific charges.

Diddy has pleaded not guilty to five counts, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. Opening statements in the trial are expected on 12 May, with jury selection beginning a week prior.