Diddy Rejects Plea Deal in Federal S£x Trafficking Case, Trial Set to Begin Next Week
Sean "Diddy" Combs rejects a plea deal in his federal s£x trafficking case. Trial begins May 5, with charges that could lead to a life sentence if convicted.
Sean “Diddy” Combs has officially declined a plea deal in his federal s£x trafficking case, confirming in court on Thursday, May 1, that he is prepared to stand trial.
During a brief court hearing in New York, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian asked Combs, 55, whether he had rejected the government’s offer. Combs answered plainly: “Yes, your honour.”
The trial is set to begin on Monday, May 5, with jury selection, and opening statements are scheduled for May 12. Combs faces charges including racketeering conspiracy, s£x trafficking, and transportation to engage in prostitution. He has pleaded not guilty to all counts.
According to Maurene Comey, an assistant United States attorney, a plea deal could have significantly reduced Combs' potential prison sentence. A conviction on all counts, however, could result in a life sentence.
Combs’ defence attorney, Marc Agnifilo, stated that the offer was thoroughly discussed with Combs and ultimately rejected. Attorney Teny Geragos, also representing Combs, raised concerns in court about Lisa Bloom, a lawyer representing some of Combs’ civil accusers. Bloom allegedly made prejudicial public statements in a documentary about the case.
The charges stem from a sweeping indictment first filed in September last year, followed by several updates, accusing Combs of operating a criminal enterprise that enabled prolonged abuse of women. Prosecutors claim that Combs used coercion and manipulation to force women into prolonged s£xual encounters he allegedly referred to as "freak-offs."
Federal prosecutors may call up to 20 additional witnesses beyond the three primary accusers, potentially painting a devastating picture of Combs’ alleged behaviour over the years.
If convicted, Combs faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years for s£x trafficking and could be sentenced to life in prison under the racketeering conspiracy charge.
This trial marks a major turning point in a case that has already rocked the entertainment world and could have wide-reaching implications for others involved.
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