Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs to stand trial on federal charges in May

American rapper and record executive Sean “Diddy” Combs will stand trial on federal sex trafficking, racketeering and conspiracy charges in May, a judge ruled Thursday, Oct. 10, during Diddy’s appearance for a hearing in a Manhattan courtroom. According to the indictment , Combs “abused, threatened, and coerced women and others around him to fulfill his sexual desires, protect his reputation, and conceal his conduct.”

Prosecutors say he engaged in sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, obstruction of justice, violence toward women and those close to him, among other crimes dating back to 2008.

In May 2024, CNN published hotel security footage from 2016 showing Combs at a Los Angeles hotel grabbing, striking and dragging his then-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, through the hotel hallway. Days later, Combs apologized in a video posted to his social media.

“I mean, I hit rock bottom, but I make no excuses,” Combs said. “My behavior on that video is inexcusable. I take full responsibility for my actions in that video.”

Combs’ legal team filed a 17-page motion Wednesday, Oct. 9, accusing federal officials of “leaking” the hotel video, claiming prosecutors are attempting to destroy his reputation, taint the jury pool, “and deprive Mr. Combs of his right to a fair trial.”

Federal prosecutors denied leaking the video.

Combs’ attorneys are seeking a gag order in the case. The judge has ordered both the prosecution and the defense not to share information or materials with the media or public about the case.

The judge has also ordered Combs to remain behind bars until his trial begins May 5. Combs is due back in court Dec. 18. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Separate from the federal charges, Combs is also facing more than 100 lawsuits from women and men across the country that accuse him of rape and assault, according to Texas lawyer Tony Buzbee .

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