A U.S. federal judge has denied Sean “Diddy” Combs’ request to postpone his upcoming trial by two months, insisting that the music mogul has had sufficient time to prepare for the proceedings.
The 55-year-old rapper and producer, facing serious federal charges including sex trafficking and racketeering, appeared in court on Friday as his legal team argued for more time to review recently introduced evidence. The court, however, rejected the plea.
Judge Arun Subramanian, presiding over the high-profile case in Manhattan, ruled that the trial will commence on May 5 as originally scheduled and is expected to last between eight and ten weeks.
Combs, who pleaded not guilty earlier in the week to two additional charges including transportation to engage in prostitution maintains that all sexual encounters were consensual.
During the hearing, he was seen nodding vigorously when the judge reminded everyone that he remains innocent until proven guilty.
“It’s unclear why additional time is needed, especially considering the four law firms now representing Mr. Combs,” the judge noted during the pretrial session.
His lead counsel, Marc Agnifilo, had argued that more time was necessary due to the alleged “new conduct.” However, Judge Subramanian dismissed the claim, stating, “The new conduct is not new.”
Appearing in court wearing grey prison scrubs, Combs appeared visibly aged, rocking slowly in his seat and occasionally turning to acknowledge his mother, Janice, with a kiss.
Also present was attorney Brian Steele, recently recognized for his legal success representing rapper Young Thug. Steele remained silent throughout the hearing.
Combs has been held in custody since September 2024 and faces multiple civil lawsuits in addition to the criminal case.
The legal troubles were sparked by public allegations made in late 2023 by singer Cassie (Casandra Ventura), who accused him of over a decade of abuse, including physical coercion and a 2018 rape.
The federal charges have since been compounded by accusations from other women, alleging widespread abuse facilitated by Combs’ close associates.
As the trial date approaches, the case continues to attract significant public and media attention, with Combs’ legacy and future hanging in the balance.
