Sean Combs, also known as "Diddy," is scheduled to go on trial for racketeering and sex trafficking on May 5, 2025, according to a judge's announcement during a court hearing on Thursday.
As reported by AFP, Federal Judge Arun Subramanian stated that Combs will stay in custody after being indicted last month on three criminal charges, which accuse him of sexually abusing women and pressuring them into drug-fueled sex parties through threats and violence.
Combs has been denied bail twice, with prosecutors citing concerns about potential witness tampering. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Upon entering the courtroom, Combs, dressed in a light-coloured, wrinkled shirt and pants, greeted his mother and children, who were present for the hearing.
Prosecutor Emily Johnson said there was still more evidence to explore, noting that 96 electronic devices had been seized in March and that more charges were possible, AFP reported.
Allegations have been building against the Grammy winner since last year, when singer Cassie, whose real name is Casandra Ventura, alleged Combs subjected her to more than a decade of coercion by physical force and drugs as well as a 2018 rape.
Also Read: How Sean ’Diddy’ Combs lured 9-year-old victim: ‘I will make you a star with record deal’
A series of shocking civil lawsuits has depicted Combs as a violent individual who exploited his celebrity status to target women. In a dramatic announcement, lawyers revealed that over 100 individuals, including some children, who claim to have been assaulted or exploited by Combs, are preparing to take further legal action.
The surge of allegations against him has brought attention to a culture within the music industry that many believe enables a pervasive pattern of sexual misconduct.
(With inputs from AFP)
