Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs appeared in federal court in New York City on Friday, entering a plea of not guilty to fresh charges related to two decades of sex trafficking offences. The 55-year-old music mogul, now sporting a noticeably greyer beard, informed Judge Arun Subramanian that he had reviewed the indictment and understood the accusations against him. Combs, who has been denied bail following his September arrest, hugged two of his lawyers before taking his place in the courtroom.
During the proceedings, Judge Subramanian informed the defence and prosecution that questionnaires for prospective jurors would be distributed by the end of April, with jury selection slated to commence on May 5, ahead of opening statements expected on May 12.
The indictment outlines allegations that Combs exploited his influential status to threaten and manipulate women into his sphere, frequently masquerading these actions as romantic relationships. It accuses him of using force, coercion, and threats, including violence and intimidation, to compel victims into participating in commercial sex acts. Further allegations detail instances of brutal behaviour, including physical assaults where victims were struck, choked, or even dangled from a balcony.
In defence of Combs, his lawyers contend that the prosecution is misrepresenting consensual adult relationships. A significant point of contention in court involved a video aired by CNN last year, which depicted Combs assaulting his former partner, R&B singer Cassie, in a hotel. Assistant US Attorney Mitzi Steiner described this footage as essential to the prosecution’s case, while defence attorney Marc Agnifilo argued that it was misleading. He claimed that the video had been altered, with segments sped up and rearranged to present a distorted narrative of events.
As he exited the courtroom, Combs interacted warmly with his family members in the audience, blowing kisses and waving as he was escorted away by marshals.