Hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs is set to face trial on May 5, following a federal judge’s decision to deny his legal team’s request for a two-month postponement.
The embattled rapper and producer is facing serious federal charges including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation to engage in prostitution.
US District Judge Arun Subramanian ruled there was sufficient time for the defense to prepare, dismissing claims that the prosecution had delayed the release of critical evidence.
“It is unclear why there isn’t sufficient time to prepare,” the judge said, insisting the case proceed without delay.
The judge also allowed for the alleged victims to testify under pseudonyms to protect their identities, with the exception of singer Cassie Ventura—Combs’ ex-girlfriend—who may testify publicly.
Ventura previously made headlines after surveillance footage surfaced allegedly showing Combs assaulting her in a hotel corridor.
According to the unsealed federal indictment, Combs is accused of orchestrating a criminal enterprise between 2008 and 2024 that included sex trafficking, forced labor, bribery, arson, and obstruction of justice.
The prosecution alleges he organized events known as “freak offs,” during which victims were coerced into sex acts that he reportedly directed, watched, and recorded.
Combs, who was denied bail multiple times since his 2023 arrest, faces a potential sentence of 15 years to life if convicted.
Over 60 civil suits have also been filed, including a $10 million claim alleging he once dangled a woman from a 17th-floor balcony.
He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
