Los Angeles – Music mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs has officially rejected a plea deal offered by federal prosecutors, opting instead to face trial on serious charges including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and prostitution. The trial begins on Monday, May 5, with jury selection, and opening statements are scheduled for May 12. The proceedings are expected to span at least eight weeks in federal court.
Appearing in court Thursday, Combs, clad in a beige jail uniform, responded to Judge Arun Subramanian when asked whether he had rejected the government’s offer:
“Yes, I do, your honour”, the artist affirmed, according to ABC News.
Rejection of the Plea Offer
Federal prosecutors had extended a plea deal that, if accepted, would have resulted in a significantly reduced sentence compared to the potential life imprisonment Combs now faces. Maurene Comey, Assistant U.S. Attorney, explained that the plea would have mitigated the harshest penalties. However, Madison Smyer, another prosecutor, confirmed that the offer was turned down by Combs during a hearing last week. The precise terms of the deal remain undisclosed to the public.
Defense Claims and Case Details
Combs’ legal team maintains that the allegations are mischaracterizations of consensual relationships, describing the intimate encounters as part of a “swingers” lifestyle between Combs and his longtime girlfriend, occasionally involving a third participant.
They argue there was no criminal intent or coercion behind the acts.
Prosecutors, however, allege that Combs exploited his position in the music industry to force women into prolonged, drug-fueled sexual activities over a period spanning two decades, referring to these events as so-called “freak-offs”.
Jury Selection and Media Influence
The first stage of the trial begins with jury selection on May 5. Jurors will be questioned extensively regarding any prior knowledge of the case to ensure impartiality amid extensive media coverage. A panel of 12 jurors and six alternates will be seated, according to Reuters.
Maintaining a Fair Trial
The court is taking steps to protect the fairness of the trial. Combs’ defense team, which currently includes six attorneys, plans to expand with two additional lawyers. They raised concerns after Lisa Bloom, a lawyer representing one of the accusers, gave an interview for a televised documentary—an act they argue could influence public opinion.
In response, Judge Subramanian has issued a directive to all involved parties—including attorneys, prosecutors, and media consultants—to uphold professional standards and avoid any conduct that could prejudice the proceedings.
