Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs has formally rejected a plea deal in his federal sex trafficking case, choosing instead to fight the charges in a high-profile trial set to begin this May in New York. The decision was confirmed during a court appearance before U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian, where Combs affirmed he was of sound mind and fully aware of his legal position.
Federal prosecutors had offered a plea deal that could have reduced prison time, but Diddy declined. He continues to plead not guilty to charges including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation to engage in prostitution—crimes that could result in a life sentence if convicted.
Judge Subramanian ruled that a controversial security video showing Diddy allegedly assaulting his then-girlfriend Cassie Ventura in a Los Angeles hotel in 2016 would be admissible as evidence. Ventura is expected to testify under her full name during the trial.
The court will begin jury selection on May 5, aiming to finalize a panel of 12 jurors and six alternates. Opening statements are scheduled for May 12, and the trial is projected to last up to 10 weeks.
Dawn Richard, a former member of Diddy’s groups Danity Kane and Dirty Money, has also filed a separate lawsuit alleging years of abuse. In her suit, Richard accuses Combs of physical assault, threats, and psychological manipulation spanning from 2004 to 2011. She is seeking damages for emotional, physical, and economic harm.
Despite the growing number of legal actions and testimonies, Diddy’s legal team maintains his innocence, accusing accusers of fabricating stories for financial gain. The outcome of this trial is expected to have significant repercussions for both the music industry and the broader #MeToo movement.