Sean “Diddy” Combs has formally rejected a plea deal offered by U.S. prosecutors in the Diddy sex trafficking trial, choosing to face court rather than admit guilt. The 55-year-old rapper appeared in court on Thursday in a beige prison uniform and glasses, maintaining a calm demeanor as he waved to the gallery. Judge Arun Subramanian asked if he was turning down the plea deal, to which Combs responded, “Yes, I do, Your Honour.”
Charges and Defense Strategy
Combs faces serious charges of sex trafficking and prostitution, accused of coercing women into extended sexual events he called “freak-offs.” If convicted, he could face a life sentence. He denies all allegations. His attorney, Marc Agnifilo, previewed their defense, framing Combs’ behavior as part of a consensual “swinger” lifestyle, not a crime.
Jury Selection and Trial Timeline
Jury selection begins Monday, coinciding with the Met Gala—an event where Combs was once a familiar face. Potential jurors have already received questionnaires to gauge bias amid widespread media coverage. Both prosecution and defense aim to screen around 150 candidates before presenting opening arguments on May 12. The trial is expected to run for at least eight weeks.
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Cassie Among Key Witnesses
One of the key witnesses expected is Cassandra Ventura, also known as Cassie. The R&B singer previously filed a lawsuit against Combs in November 2023, alleging rape and years of abuse. Although the case was settled within a day, CNN later aired surveillance footage showing Combs physically assaulting her in a hotel. Despite attempts by his lawyers to have the footage excluded, the judge ruled it admissible.
Court Appearance and Special Clothing Request
Since his arrest in September, Combs has been held in a Brooklyn detention center. During pre-trial appearances, he has looked older and more subdued than his usual public image, with grey hair and beard due to jail regulations. However, the court has approved his request to wear non-prison attire during the trial—up to five button-down shirts, trousers, sweaters, socks, and two pairs of lace-free shoes—to avoid influencing the jury’s perception.
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