Sean “Diddy” Combs entered a not guilty plea on Monday to an expanded federal indictment that now includes five criminal counts, encompassing sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation for prostitution. The new charges involve a second alleged victim, referred to in court documents as “Victim-2.” Prosecutors allege that between 2021 and 2024, Combs used force, fraud, or coercion to compel her into commercial sex acts and transported her and others for prostitution.
Diddy Faces Expanded Federal Indictment
During the hearing in Manhattan federal court, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian reaffirmed the trial schedule, with jury selection set for May 5 and opening statements expected on May 12. Combs remains in custody at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center, having been denied bail multiple times due to concerns over potential witness tampering.
Combs’ legal team, led by attorney Marc Agnifilo, maintains that the allegations stem from past consensual relationships and do not involve new accusers. They have filed motions to extensively question potential jurors on sensitive topics such as drug and alcohol abuse, domestic violence, and sexual attitudes, arguing that the case content requires candor. Prosecutors, however, advocate for a more concise juror questionnaire focused only on issues relevant to determining impartiality.
In a separate motion, Combs’ attorneys have accused the federal government of leaking a 2016 surveillance video showing him assaulting his then-girlfriend, Casandra Ventura, to CNN. They argue that the leak was intended to damage Combs’ reputation and jeopardize his right to a fair trial. Prosecutors have denied possessing the video before its public release.
Awaiting Trial Amidst Mounting Allegations
While awaiting trial, Combs is housed in the 4 North unit of the Metropolitan Detention Center, a dormitory-style section for high-profile or at-risk inmates. He uses a restricted laptop to review evidence and regularly meets with his legal team. His attorneys have objected to government monitoring of his communications and searches of his personal notes, while prosecutors accuse him of misusing phone privileges to contact potential witnesses.
Combs faces numerous civil lawsuits from both women and men alleging sexual abuse. Prosecutors claim he exploited his celebrity status and orchestrated a network of associates to abuse, silence, and traffic women, using threats, violence, and intimidation, including blackmail, arson, and physical assault.
A pretrial conference is scheduled for April 18, as both sides prepare for what is expected to be a highly scrutinized trial.