Judge Sets Trial Date For Diddy's Federal Sex Trafficking Case
By Tony M. Centeno
October 10, 2024
A trial date has been set for Sean "Diddy" Combs' federal case.
According to a report from CNN, a judge scheduled Combs' trial to begin in Spring 2025 during a hearing held on Thursday, October 10. His legal team previously requested for the trial to occur in April or May of next year. Judge Arun Subramanian set the date for May 5, 2025 and also issued a gag order about the "secret grand jury material and other non-public evidence in the case." Combs was present during the hearing. He flashed a big smile to his family as he walked in shackles towards the front of the courtroom.
Combs' attorney Marc Agnifilo told the judge the defense's argument would last at least a week. However, prosecutor Emily Johnson indicated that the prosecution will need at least three weeks to make their case. Johnson also added that the trial could last longer than that due to a superseding indictment that could include more criminal charges and/or defendants.
A grand jury has reportedly been in session since the summer. It has continued to hear testimony even after Combs was arrested last month. Federal investigators have recently received an influx of tips and allegations from women and men who have either witnessed or claimed to have been victims of Combs and his employees. The testimony and evidence they've collected could result in more charges for Combs and implicate more people from his inner circle.
The mogul was charged with sex trafficking, transportation to engage in prostitution, and racketeering. He pleaded not guilty and was denied bond twice. After filing a third appeal of his bond ruling, Combs' legal team also accused the Department of Homeland Security of purposely leaking the violent video of Combs beating up his ex-girlfriend Cassie. Damian Williams, the US Attorney for the Southern District of New York, responded to the allegations by saying there was "no factual basis" for the claims against DHS.
“The government was not in possession of the video before its publication by CNN,” Williams told the judge.
See what The Breakfast Club had to say about the case below.