Sean “Diddy” Combs has declined a plea deal offered by federal prosecutors, choosing instead to contest charges of sex trafficking and racketeering in court. The music mogul, 55, appeared in Manhattan federal court on Friday, where his attorney, Marc Agnifilo, outlined part of the defense strategy.
“There’s a lifestyle, call it swingers, that he was in that he thought was appropriate,” Agnifilo stated, referencing Combs’ participation in consensual sexual activities. “The reason he thought it was appropriate is because it’s so common.”
Prosecution’s Allegations and Evidence
Prosecutors allege that Combs coerced women into participating in drug-fueled, multi-day sexual encounters, known as “Freak Offs,” using threats of violence and financial manipulation. They claim to possess video evidence of these events. Federal prosecutor Madison Smyser disclosed the plea offer and Combs’ rejection during the hearing but did not provide details about the offer.
Additionally, the prosecution introduced a video allegedly showing Combs assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, in a Los Angeles hotel in 2016. Combs’ legal team attempted to suppress the footage, arguing it was manipulated. However, Judge Arun Subramanian ruled the video admissible, stating it does not unfairly prejudice the jury.
Trial Timeline and Potential Consequences
Jury selection for Combs’ trial is scheduled to begin on May 5, with opening statements set for May 12. The trial is expected to last eight to ten weeks. If convicted, Combs could face decades in prison.
Combs has been detained in Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center since his arrest in September 2024. He has been denied bail three times, with prosecutors arguing he poses a risk of witness tampering. They allege Combs has attempted to contact potential witnesses from jail using unauthorized communication methods.
The charges against Combs stem from a broader investigation initiated after a lawsuit filed by Cassie Ventura in 2023, which was settled out of court. Since then, over 100 individuals have come forward with similar allegations, leading to multiple lawsuits and a federal indictment.
As the trial approaches, Combs maintains his innocence, asserting that all activities were consensual and part of a common lifestyle. The court proceedings will determine the validity of these claims and the outcome of the serious charges he faces.