In New York, the sex trafficking case against Sean “Diddy” Combs is set to proceed on schedule in early May, despite his legal team’s plea for a two-month postponement to better prepare. During a federal court session in Manhattan, Judge Arun Subramanian confirmed that the trial for the renowned hip-hop figure will commence on May 5 and is expected to last between eight and ten weeks.
Combs’ attorneys had argued for additional time, citing the necessity to gather more information on the trial’s witnesses and to address recent charges added to their client’s indictment. However, Judge Subramanian, highlighting the presence of at least four lawyers on Combs’ defense team, concluded there was ample time to be adequately prepared for the forthcoming trial. He explicitly refused to sanction a delay for what he termed a “fishing expedition” to seek further evidence.
Since his arrest in September, the 55-year-old Combs has remained in custody without bail. After the hearing, he turned to face his mother and other supporters, offering a thumbs-up sign. His supporters included a man donning a “Free Puff” sweatshirt. Combs has maintained a plea of not guilty.
During the hearing, Judge Subramanian also made decisions regarding trial proceedings and evidence admission. One such ruling allowed the prosecution’s witnesses, who are Combs’ accusers, to testify using pseudonyms to protect their identities. Additionally, the judge dismissed a request from the defense to discard several charges from Combs’ indictment.
Prosecutors allege that for over twenty years, Combs exploited and mistreated women by using his influence and stature within the music industry to suppress victims using blackmail and violence, with incidences reported of kidnapping, arson, and physical assaults. They claim that the founder of Bad Boy Records forced female victims to participate in drug-induced, highly orchestrated sexual performances with male sex workers at events commonly referred to as “Freak Offs.”
The defense, however, argues that the prosecution is distorting Combs’ past associations with former girlfriends, presenting consensual sexual activities in a criminal light.