Diddy’s Trial to Start on May 5, 2025
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, the renowned rapper and music mogul, will go on trial for charges of sex trafficking and racketeering, starting May 5, 2025, in Manhattan.
This announcement was made during a recent court hearing on Thursday, which Combs attended in a wrinkled beige prison uniform. He was accompanied by his legal team.
The proceedings took a serious turn as the judge discussed imposing a gag order to restrict public commentary on the case.
Prosecutor Emily Johnson informed the judge that the government would require three weeks to make its case. Defense attorney Marc Agnifilo stated that Diddy’s team would need one week for their presentation.
As the hearing concluded, some of Combs’s supporters stood at the door, straining to catch a glimpse of him as he was led away.
Family members filled the courtroom to support Combs, including his three daughters, three sons, and mother. He expressed his affection by mouthing “I love you” and placing his hand over his heart.
In addition to the criminal charges, Combs faces dozens of lawsuits alleging sexual assault, rape, and exploitation. He has pleaded not guilty and his attorneys have consistently maintained that the allegations against him are “false and defamatory.”
The prosecution claims that Combs drugged and coerced women into sexual activities, sometimes using threats of violence.
A police raid on his Los Angeles home reportedly uncovered items intended for group sexual activities, including drugs and over 1,000 bottles of baby oil.
Combs’s legal troubles began with a lawsuit from his ex-girlfriend, Cassandra Ventura, who accused him of abuse. That lawsuit was settled shortly after it was filed.
More than 100 individuals have since come forward with similar accusations, some alleging incidents dating back to 1991.
Currently held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, Combs’s request for bail was denied due to concerns he might flee. His attorneys are actively fighting to dismiss prejudicial evidence as the trial approaches.
If convicted, Combs could face significant prison time, including a potential life sentence.
-BBC
