Hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs is set to face a federal trial in May 2025, following serious charges of sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy. During a hearing in Manhattan federal court on Thursday, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian scheduled the trial for May 5, 2025. Combs has pleaded not guilty to the charges, which include allegations of coercing and abusing women for years, aided by a network of associates.
Prosecution Anticipates Lengthy Trial for Diddy
Prosecutor Emily Johnson revealed that the trial could last three weeks. “However,” she said, “a superseding indictment may extend the trial if new charges or defendants are added.” The defense, led by Marc Agnifilo, anticipates their case will last around a week. Johnson emphasized that the prosecution will vigorously pursue justice for the victims.
Combs’ legal team has voiced concerns about pretrial publicity, accusing the U.S. Department of Homeland Security of leaking a 2016 hotel surveillance video showing Combs kicking his then-girlfriend, R&B singer Cassie Ventura, in a Los Angeles hotel. Agnifilo argued that the video, aired by CNN in May 2023, has unfairly tainted the jury pool. He said, “This video, and other leaks, jeopardize Mr. Combs’ right to a fair trial.”
Johnson countered this claim, calling it an attempt to exclude damaging evidence. “There is no factual basis for these accusations,” she stated, adding that the government did not possess the video before its CNN broadcast.
Combs remains in federal custody after two judges denied bail, deeming him a threat to the community. His legal team has appealed the rulings, arguing that proposed bail conditions, including home detention, would mitigate any potential risks. However, courts have so far rejected these efforts, citing concerns over witness tampering.
Combs’ next court appearance is scheduled for December 18, 2024. Until then, the legal battle continues as both sides prepare for what is expected to be a highly scrutinized trial.