**Diddy Pleads Not Guilty to New Sex Trafficking Charges**
Sean “Diddy” Combs has entered a not guilty plea to new charges of sex trafficking and transportation for prostitution, which were added to his indictment earlier this month. This brings the total number of criminal charges against the music mogul to five, following three original counts, including racketeering conspiracy, filed in September.
The 55-year-old Combs has consistently denied all allegations and previously pleaded not guilty to the initial charges. He appeared in court on Monday before US District Judge Arun Subramanian in Manhattan, New York, to formally address the additional charges. Dressed in tan prison attire over a white thermal shirt, Combs appeared more subdued than in previous hearings.
During the court session, Combs’ legal team indicated they might seek a two-week delay for the trial set to begin in May if they do not receive critical evidence from prosecutors. His attorney, Teny Geragos, mentioned that the defense had not yet received around 200,000 emails exchanged between Combs and one of the alleged victims. In response, Assistant US Attorney Christie Slavik opposed any postponement, accusing the defense of employing “gamesmanship” to stall the trial. Judge Subramanian warned the defense that they needed to file for an adjournment within the next 48 hours, emphasizing the urgency of the upcoming trial.
Both parties are scheduled to return to court for another hearing on Friday. In a previous statement regarding the new charges, Combs’ lawyers asserted that these allegations are not new and involve the same individuals who were part of consensual relationships. Prosecutors allege that Combs exploited his business empire to sexually abuse women from 2004 to 2024, claiming he organized “freak offs” that involved drug-fueled sexual performances with women and male sex workers. Combs has firmly denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that all interactions were consensual.
The trial is set to commence on May 5, with jury selection expected to take about a week, followed by opening statements on May 12. Combs has been incarcerated in Brooklyn since the charges were announced in September and has been denied bail. He is also facing numerous civil lawsuits from individuals accusing him of sexual abuse.
**FAQ**
*What are the latest charges against Sean Combs?*
Sean Combs faces new charges of sex trafficking and transportation for prostitution, adding to previous charges including racketeering conspiracy, bringing the total to five criminal charges.
