Disgraced music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs has turned down a plea deal in his ongoing federal sex trafficking and racketeering case, according to a federal prosecutor during a hearing in New York on Friday.
Prosecutor Madison Smyser disclosed that a plea offer had been extended to Combs during the pre-trial hearing but did not provide specific details about the terms of the proposed deal. Combs, who faces five federal charges, has pleaded not guilty to all counts.
The charges stem from allegations that the rapper and producer used violence, intimidation, and coercion to force women into “Freak Offs”—sex parties involving non-consensual acts.
In a setback for Combs’ defense, Judge Arun Subramanian ruled that surveillance footage from a 2016 hotel incident, where Combs is seen physically assaulting his then-girlfriend, singer Cassie Ventura, will be admitted as evidence.
Legal expert Mundaca commented on the ruling, stating, “It’s a huge win for the prosecution and a tough loss for the defense. The video will be hard for any jury member to view and think favorably of Combs. Visual evidence like this is incredibly powerful.”
Combs’ legal team had previously argued that the video was altered and should be excluded, but the judge determined it would be shown to the jury during the trial.
The rapper has publicly apologized for his actions in the video, stating, “My behavior on that video is inexcusable. I take full responsibility for my actions and have sought therapy and rehab. I’m not asking for forgiveness, but I am truly sorry.”
Cassie Ventura, who recently settled a separate civil lawsuit against Combs, is expected to testify in person. Jury selection is set for May 5, with opening statements scheduled for May 12. The trial is expected to last up to 10 weeks.
Combs continues to deny all allegations, including the charges of sex trafficking and racketeering.
