Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Faces Trial in Manhattan on Sex Trafficking, Racketeering Charges
May 12, 2025: Opening arguments are set to begin today in the high-profile criminal trial of music mogul Sean Combs, known globally as Diddy, who faces multiple federal charges including sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and transportation for the purpose of prostitution. The trial is taking place in Manhattan Federal Court, with Judge Arun Subramanian presiding.
The 55-year-old rapper and entrepreneur, founder of Bad Boy Records, has pleaded not guilty to all charges. He has been in federal custody since September 2024, and his trial formally began on May 5.
The Charges
Combs is facing a five-count indictment that includes serious allegations such as:
- Sex trafficking and transportation for prostitution
- Racketeering conspiracy
- Sexual assault
- Kidnapping
- Forced labour
- Bribery and obstruction of justice
- Physical violence and arson
The indictment describes a “persistent and pervasive pattern of abuse” toward women and other individuals over the course of two decades, alleging Combs used his celebrity and wealth to exploit and silence his victims.
What to Expect in Court
With jury selection nearly complete, opening statements from both the prosecution and defence are expected to begin Monday. The prosecution plans to lay out a narrative of sustained abuse, coercion, and elaborate cover-ups, while Combs’ defence team will focus on disputing the allegations and casting doubt on the credibility of his accusers.
Judge Subramanian has ruled that several pieces of key evidence, including a 2016 surveillance video showing Combs allegedly attacking singer Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, will be admissible in court.
Key Witnesses and Evidence
Among the prosecution’s key witnesses:
- Cassie Ventura, who sued Combs in 2023 for years of abuse (the case was settled privately).
- Three additional women, known by pseudonyms, are expected to testify.
- Former associates and law enforcement officials will also take the stand.
Evidence includes:
- The 2016 hotel video of Combs allegedly assaulting Ventura.
- 96 electronic devices seized during raids on Combs’ homes in March 2024, with prosecutors highlighting 90 terabytes of data as “extraordinary.”
- Alleged footage of events known as “Freak Offs“, described as drug-fueled sex parties involving coercion and blackmail.
The Defence’s Argument
Combs’ legal team, led by Marc Agnifilo, contends:
- The sexual activity described was consensual and part of a “swingers lifestyle.”
- The charges are based on false and financially motivated claims by former partners.
- The hotel video does not prove sex trafficking but instead shows a personal dispute over infidelity.
Agnifilo has labeled the case “an unjust prosecution,” asserting that Combs is “not a criminal” and is being targeted unfairly due to his high profile.
Risk of Witness Tampering
Combs has been denied bail three times, with the judge citing a “serious risk of witness tampering.” He remains in custody at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn.
What’s at Stake
If convicted:
- Combs faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years for sex trafficking.
- Up to 10 years for transportation for prostitution.
- And a potential life sentence under the racketeering charge.
The trial is expected to last several weeks, with significant implications not just for Combs’ future, but for accountability in the entertainment industry at large.