Sean “Diddy” Combs appeared in federal court in New York City on Friday, pleading not guilty to an updated indictment accusing him of two decades of sex trafficking crimes. The 55-year-old music mogul, who has been held without bail since his September arrest, stood before Judge Arun Subramanian and confirmed that he understood the charges.
The indictment alleges that Combs used his influence and status to intimidate, threaten, and manipulate women into abusive relationships. Prosecutors claim he coerced victims into commercial sex acts through violence, threats, and psychological abuse. Specific accusations include instances where Combs allegedly hit, dragged, choked, and shoved victims. In one alleged incident, he is accused of dangling a woman over a balcony.
Jury selection is set to begin in late April, with opening statements expected on May 12. A major point of contention in court Friday was whether a widely circulated surveillance video showing Combs physically assaulting singer Cassie, his former girlfriend and protégé, would be admissible in trial. Prosecutors argued the footage was crucial evidence, while Combs’ defense attorneys claimed it had been altered to misrepresent the events.
The defense maintains that the prosecution is unfairly portraying consensual relationships as criminal behavior. Combs, appearing visibly aged, hugged his lawyers upon entering the courtroom and waved to family members before being escorted out by marshals.
