Sean 'Diddy' Combs trial opens in NYC with explosive testimony from hotel security guard

NEW YORK CITY (TNND) — Sean "Diddy" Combs' federal sex trafficking trial is officially underway in New York City. Jury selection wrapped up Monday after being postponed over the weekend.

Opening statements followed, then two witnesses took the stand, including Israel Florez, a former security guard at the Intercontinental Hotel in Century City, where Combs allegedly assaulted Ventura in 2016.

"The most important thing he was able to do for the government was authenticate the video so it can come into evidence," said Sheena Winkfield, a criminal defense attorney based out of Dallas-Fort Worth.

In his testimony, Florez detailed being called to the floor they were staying on, talking with the two, and even claimed he was offered a bribe by Combs. Prosecutors also played the original security footage from that day.

He's able to identify who's on the video and he is able to say this is a true and accurate depiction of that day," said Winkfield.

The second witness called to testify was Daniel Phillip, who said Ventura paid him for sex multiple times, often in Combs' presence. Phillip also claimed Combs would occasionally give direction.

"They did that on purpose to make sure that they were able to just capture everyone's attention about what is happening," Winkfield said.

But Winkfield believes this part of his testimony could actually open the door for the defense since they are arguing the sex was consensual.

"Here, through his testimony, he's showing a different side that is, in fact, their star witness is the person that has invited him into their lives," said Winkfield.

Phillip is expected to return to the stand Tuesday morning when court resumes at 9:15 a.m. Ventura is also expected to testify this week.