- Sean “Diddy” Combs has rejected a plea deal from federal prosecutors.
- This decision sets the stage for his trial, which is scheduled to begin next week.
- The case involves allegations of sex trafficking.
American music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs has turned down a plea offer from federal prosecutors, paving the way for his trial to commence next week in connection with his ongoing sex trafficking case.
During a court session on May 1, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian inquired, “Have you decided to reject the government’s offer?” to which Combs replied, “Yes, your honor.”
The 55-year-old rapper and producer is set to face trial starting Monday, with jury selection marking the start of the legal proceedings. He faces severe charges, including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and prostitution. Prosecutors claim that Combs orchestrated prolonged sexual encounters, termed “freak-offs,” by allegedly coercing women as part of an extensive criminal operation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Maurene Comey disclosed that the plea deal would have significantly reduced Combs’ potential prison sentence. However, if convicted at trial, Combs could face a life sentence.
Combs has consistently maintained his innocence and pleaded not guilty to all accusations. His attorney, Marc Agnifilo, confirmed that after reviewing the plea deal, Combs and his defense team chose to move forward with the trial.
Attorney Teny Geragos, also representing Combs, raised concerns regarding statements made by attorney Lisa Bloom, who represents at least two of Combs’ civil accusers. These comments were made in a recent documentary, prompting questions about Bloom’s conduct.
Combs was arrested last year in connection with a federal indictment filed in September, which was later expanded. Prosecutors argue that he led a criminal network involved in years of sexual, physical, emotional, and verbal abuse.
The trial is set to begin on May 5 with jury selection, followed by opening statements on May 12. Prosecutors plan to present up to 20 witnesses, in addition to the three main accusers, to testify about Combs’ alleged actions.
If convicted, Combs faces the possibility of spending decades in prison. The racketeering charge alone could result in a life sentence, while the sex trafficking charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years, potentially extending to life imprisonment.
