Nationwide — Sean “Diddy” Combs’ intercourse trafficking trial, initially scheduled for Could 2025, has been postponed by every week. The choice got here after a listening to a few new compelled labor cost, whereby Combs pleaded not responsible.
The choose defined that extra time is required to handle authorized issues earlier than the trial begins. Jury choice is about for late April and will take as much as three days, giving the protection further preparation time, in keeping with Blavity.
Combs, who already faces prices associated to intercourse trafficking, racketeering, and transporting people for prostitution, now faces a further cost of compelled labor. Prosecutors allege that he used intimidation and threats, together with withholding pay and sleep deprivation, to drive workers to conform along with his calls for.
Prosecutor Mitzi Steiner acknowledged that over 20 potential witnesses may testify however are reluctant to return ahead on account of worry of retaliation. Choose Arun Subramanian ordered their identities to be shared with the protection underneath strict confidentiality.
Along with the trial delay, the prosecution introduced new proof, together with a 2016 video allegedly exhibiting Combs in a resort hallway assaulting his then-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura.
If convicted on the fees, together with compelled labor, Combs may face life in jail. His trial is now set to start on Could 12, 2025.
