Nationwide — A federal judge has denied Sean “Diddy” Combs’ request to delay his upcoming trial for sex trafficking and racketeering. The trial will begin on May 5th as originally scheduled, even after new charges and a new alleged victim were added.On April 18, Judge Arun Subramanian rejected the two-month delay requested by Combs’ legal team. They argued they needed more time to review a new indictment. However, the judge said the defense has enough time and resources to prepare. He added that the new charges do not significantly change the case and warned against allowing a “fishing expedition” for more evidence, according to NBC News.
Combs has been in custody without bail since his arrest in September. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Prosecutors claim he ran a pattern of abuse over decades, using fame, blackmail, and violence. His lawyers argue that the government is misinterpreting consensual relationships.
The trial will be held in Manhattan and is expected to last 8 to 10 weeks. Jury selection begins on May 5, with opening statements set for May 12.
Judge Subramanian also made other rulings, granting the defense access to drafts of a memoir by key accuser Cassie Ventura and subpoena rights for related interview footage. He ruled that two unnamed accusers cannot testify due to a lack of supporting evidence, but testimony from a third accuser, “Victim 5,” will be allowed. The court also approved the use of pseudonyms for witnesses to protect their identities.
Combs remains in custody at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. The judge has denied bail three times, calling him a serious risk for witness tampering. Prosecutors say he’s used social media and hidden communication channels to try to influence the trial from jail.
If found guilty, Combs could face 15 years to life in prison.