Diddy Faces New Allegations as He Pleads Not Guilty in Court

The rap icon prepares for trial in a federal sex trafficking case while asserting his innocence against numerous lawsuits.

Sean "Diddy" Combs has entered a not guilty plea to an updated indictment that introduces serious new allegations against him, including claims of forced labor. The revised charges, detailed in the superseding indictment, accuse the music mogul of coercing employees to endure long working hours through threats of both physical harm and damage to their reputations. Furthermore, it is alleged that he forced at least one employee into sexual acts.

Representatives for Combs have categorically rejected the notion that he ever compelled anyone into non-consensual sexual activity, framing the situation as a series of consensual relationships. “He looks forward to his day in court when it will become clear that he has never forced anyone to engage in sexual acts against their will,” his attorney, Marc Agnifilo, stated.

The 53-year-old, best known as one of the most influential figures in American rap, is slated to face trial in connection with a federal case involving sex trafficking and racketeering charges. The newly surfaced allegations form part of the broader racketeering accusation. Additionally, Combs finds himself battling multiple civil lawsuits alleging rape and assault, claims which his defense team describes as opportunistic attempts to capitalize on his fame.

During a recent court appearance in New York, Diddy was clad in a tan prison jumpsuit, revealing his overdue grooming with a scruffy beard and unkempt hair. He stood to deliver his not guilty plea and confirmed to the judge that he had reviewed the indictment. Among the supporters in attendance were his son Christian, daughter Chance, and mother Janice Combs, who offered moral support as they surrounded him with affection.

A highlighted point during proceedings was a video that purportedly shows Diddy kicking his former girlfriend, Cassandra Ventura, in a hotel hallway in 2016. Diddy’s team continues to assert that the footage is misleading, citing alleged issues with the editing and presentation of the video. In contrast, prosecutors labeled the video as essential evidence, calling it "critical" for their case. The court anticipates a compromise discussion on the video’s admissibility, reflecting the contentious atmosphere between the two parties.

Following the video's release in 2024, Combs issued an apology, taking accountability for his actions, from which he has since distanced himself. As the legal battle looms, jury selection is set to begin on May 5, with opening statements expected shortly thereafter on May 12, marking a pivotal moment in Combs' legal saga.