On May 1, local time, American rapper and music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs declined a plea agreement offered by prosecutors in a criminal case involving sex trafficking. The trial is now set to begin on May 12, with Combs facing five felony charges, including conspiracy and fraud. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment.
Prosecutors allege that, beginning in the 1990s, Combs orchestrated events where women were coerced into participating in drug-fueled sexual performances. The defense, however, has argued that the acts were part of consensual, open relationships. The court has already commenced jury selection, and the trial is expected to extend over eight weeks.
This trial follows a March 2024 raid by the US Department of Homeland Security on Combs' residences in Los Angeles and Miami. During the raids, law enforcement reportedly detained all individuals present, including Combs' two sons, who were handcuffed and taken into custody. Investigators searched for evidence connected to the case.
Combs was arrested in September 2024 on charges including extortion, sex trafficking, and running a prostitution ring. Despite offering to post bail, his request was denied by the court. Additional allegations include sexual assault and forced drug use against former employees, models, and singers, though many of these claims were reportedly suppressed through financial settlements and Combs' influence. Combs denies all charges except for those involving his ex-girlfriend, which remain unresolved.
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