Sean “Diddy” Combs, prominent hip-hop entrepreneur and Grammy-nominated artist, is scheduled to stand trial on May 5 at the Daniel Patrick Moynihan courthouse in New York City, facing federal charges including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking.
Combs, held at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center since September 16, 2024, has entered a not-guilty plea to all criminal charges. If convicted, he could receive a life sentence for racketeering and a minimum 15-year sentence for sex trafficking.
Federal prosecutors allege Combs participated in kidnapping, drugging, and coercing women into sexual activities, sometimes using firearms or threats of violence. During a search of his Los Angeles residence, law enforcement reported finding materials allegedly intended for organized sexual events, including drugs and substantial quantities of baby oil.
The prosecution team estimates they will require three weeks to present their case, while the defense projects one week for their presentation. While the trial will be public, following federal court protocol, cameras, and electronic devices will not be permitted in the courtroom.
Beyond the criminal case, Combs faces numerous civil lawsuits. Attorney Tony Buzbee indicates that over 100 individuals nationwide have filed or plan to file legal actions against the music executive. These cases include allegations ranging from rape to assault, with some claims dating back to 1991.
The legal scrutiny intensified following a lawsuit by his former girlfriend, singer Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, in late 2023, alleging violent abuse and rape. This case settled for an undisclosed amount within a day, though Combs maintained his innocence. Subsequently, multiple women came forward with similar allegations.
In early 2024, surveillance footage emerged showing Combs kicking Ventura in a hotel hallway in 2016, for which he later expressed remorse and accepted responsibility. Recently, his legal team filed a motion challenging aspects of the federal indictment, arguing racial targeting regarding prostitution-related charges.
Combs has consistently denied all allegations in criminal and civil cases through his legal representatives. His lawyer stated to the BBC: “Mr Combs and his legal team have full confidence in the facts and the integrity of the judicial process. In court, the truth will prevail: that Mr Combs never sexually assaulted or trafficked anyone.”
A federal judge has denied bail requests, citing flight risk concerns. Prosecutors have also alleged that Combs violated prison regulations by attempting to contact potential witnesses before the trial.
Before these legal challenges, Combs established himself as a significant figure in the music industry during the 1990s, helping launch the careers of artists like Mary J. Blige and The Notorious B.I.G. through his Bad Boy Records label. His business ventures extended beyond music, including a notable partnership with Diageo for Cîroc vodka. In 2023, he released “The Love Album: Off The Grid,” earning his first solo Grammy nomination and MTV’s Global Icon recognition.
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