Sean “Diddy” Combs pleaded not guilty on Friday to a new indictment that included accusations of forcing employees to work long hours and threatening punishment for those who didn’t assist in a two-decade-long sex trafficking operation. The 55-year-old mogul appeared before U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian in Manhattan federal court ahead of his trial scheduled for May 5. Combs, who has been incarcerated in Brooklyn since his September 2024 arrest, wore tan prison clothing and had gray hair and a beard. He blew kisses to his family in the courtroom as he was led out after the 45-minute hearing.
Combs previously pleaded not guilty to charges related to racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation for prostitution.
Known for his work with Bad Boy Records, Combs is credited with launching the careers of major artists like Mary J. Blige, Faith Evans, and Notorious B.I.G. Prosecutors claim that between 2004 and 2024, Combs used his business empire to sexually abuse women, involving them in “freak offs” with male sex workers, sometimes across state lines.
The new indictment details the “forced labor” Combs allegedly imposed on some employees, forcing them to work long hours with little sleep, under threats of physical, financial, psychological, and reputational harm. Combs’ defense attorney, Marc Agnifilo, insists that all sexual activity was consensual, and denies forcing anyone to engage in acts against their will.
A key piece of evidence in the trial may be a hotel surveillance video aired by CNN showing Combs allegedly striking and dragging his former girlfriend, Casandra Ventura (known as Cassie). Agnifilo argued that the video was misleading, claiming it was edited and altered. A CNN spokesperson has denied altering the footage. Judge Subramanian suggested the two sides work together to correct any discrepancies before presenting the video to the jury. Jury selection will begin on April 28, with opening statements scheduled for May 12.
