Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs pleaded not guilty on Friday to a superseding indictment in his federal sex trafficking and racketeering case. The new charges allege that Combs sexually abused individuals, coerced them into drug-fueled sex parties using threats and violence, and forced employees to work under oppressive conditions while demanding their silence.
Appearing in a Manhattan courtroom, the 55-year-old rapper and producer wore a tan shirt and pants as he entered his plea. His trial is scheduled to begin in the spring, with in-person jury selection tentatively set for May 5 and opening statements expected by May 12.
Combs, who has been incarcerated since September, maintains his innocence. The allegations against him have mounted since late 2023, when singer Cassie, whose real name is Casandra Ventura, accused him of subjecting her to more than a decade of abuse, including physical coercion, drug use, and a 2018 rape.
Beyond the federal criminal case, Combs also faces multiple civil lawsuits, with plaintiffs alleging a pattern of abuse orchestrated with the help of his associates. Despite his legal troubles, Combs appeared in good spirits during Friday’s hearing, smiling, waving, and blowing kisses to his supporters, including his mother and two of his children.
