Sean “Diddy” Combs, the renowned rapper and music mogul, is set to face trial for sex trafficking and racketeering charges. The trial is scheduled to begin on 5 May next year in Manhattan, as ruled by US District Judge Arun Subramanian.
Mr. Combs, who has pleaded not guilty, is facing a slew of allegations, including kidnapping, drugging, and coercing women into sexual activities. In a raid on his Los Angeles mansion, police found supplies intended for orgies, leading to further scrutiny.
In addition to the criminal case, Mr. Combs is also facing multiple lawsuits from individuals accusing him of sexual assault and exploitation. The legal battle has intensified with more than a dozen people coming forward with allegations against the rapper.
Currently held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York, Mr. Combs’ legal team has been fighting for his release pending trial, citing the jail’s conditions. However, a New York federal judge denied their request, deeming Mr. Combs a flight risk.
If convicted, Mr. Combs could face life in prison for the racketeering charge and a minimum of 15 years for the sex trafficking charge. The trial is expected to be public, with sketch artists capturing moments from court proceedings for the media and the public.
As the legal battle unfolds, prosecutors have indicated that the investigation is ongoing, leaving the possibility of additional charges looming over Mr. Combs. Stay tuned for more updates on this high-profile case.
