Embattled music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs has pleaded not guilty to the latest indictment accusing him of orchestrating two decades of sex trafficking crimes.
The 55-year-old rapper and producer entered the plea upon returning to federal court in New York City on Friday. Addressing Judge Arun Subramanian, Combs confirmed he had read the indictment and understood the charges against him.
Held without bail since his arrest in September, Combs embraced two of his attorneys upon entering the courtroom. As U.S. marshals led him out, he blew kisses to family members and waved.
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Judge Subramanian announced that jury selection will begin at the end of April, with questioning of prospective jurors set for May 5 and opening statements expected on May 12.
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According to prosecutors, Combs leveraged his power and influence in the music industry to manipulate, intimidate, and coerce women into sex trafficking, often under the guise of romantic relationships.
The indictment details allegations that he used threats, violence, and financial intimidation to force victims—three of whom are explicitly named—to engage in commercial sex acts.
“On multiple occasions, Combs threw objects and people, struck, dragged, choked, and shoved victims,” the indictment states. “In one instance, he allegedly dangled a victim over an apartment balcony.”
His defense team contends that prosecutors have exaggerated or misrepresented consensual encounters.
A key courtroom debate on Friday centered around a widely circulated hotel surveillance video aired by CNN last year, in which Sean “Diddy” Combs is seen striking his former protégé and girlfriend, singer Cassie, before throwing her to the floor.
Prosecutor Mitzi Steiner argued that the footage is “critical to the case,” while Combs’ attorney, Marc Agnifilo, called it “deceptive,” claiming the video had been manipulated—sped up in some parts and rearranged to misrepresent events.
Steiner further noted the government’s hesitation to share details about potential accusers with the defense, citing concerns over witness safety. She emphasized that many individuals are “incredibly frightened” about their identities becoming public, even to Combs’ legal team.
