Nationwide — A federal choose has denied Sean “Diddy” Combs’ request to delay his upcoming trial for intercourse trafficking and racketeering. The trial will start on Might fifth as initially scheduled, even after new expenses and a brand new alleged sufferer have been added.
On April 18, Choose Arun Subramanian rejected the two-month delay requested by Combs’ authorized workforce. They argued they wanted extra time to evaluate a brand new indictment. Nevertheless, the choose stated the protection has sufficient time and sources to arrange. He added that the brand new expenses don’t considerably change the case and warned towards permitting a “fishing expedition” for extra proof, based on NBC News.
Combs has been in custody with out bail since his arrest in September. He has pleaded not responsible to all expenses. Prosecutors declare he ran a sample of abuse over a long time, utilizing fame, blackmail, and violence. His attorneys argue that the federal government is misinterpreting consensual relationships.
The trial will likely be held in Manhattan and is predicted to final 8 to 10 weeks. Jury choice begins on Might 5, with opening statements set for Might 12.
Choose Subramanian additionally made different rulings, granting the protection entry to drafts of a memoir by key accuser Cassie Ventura and subpoena rights for associated interview footage. He dominated that two unnamed accusers can’t testify because of a scarcity of supporting proof, however testimony from a 3rd accuser, “Sufferer 5,” will likely be allowed. The courtroom additionally authorised using pseudonyms for witnesses to guard their identities.
Combs stays in custody on the Metropolitan Detention Middle in Brooklyn. The choose has denied bail thrice, calling him a severe danger for witness tampering. Prosecutors say he’s used social media and hidden communication channels to attempt to affect the trial from jail.
If discovered responsible, Combs may face 15 years to life in jail.
