Sean “Diddy” Combs has pleaded not guilty to a newly amended indictment that includes allegations of forced labour, as he prepares to stand trial in a federal sex trafficking and racketeering case. The rap mogul entered his plea in a New York federal court on Friday, maintaining his innocence against the latest accusations.
The superseding indictment alleges that Combs forced employees to work under the threat of physical and reputational harm and coerced at least one worker into engaging in sex acts with him. His legal team has strongly denied all allegations, emphasizing that any relationships he had were consensual. Combs’ attorney, Marc Agnifilo, stated, “He looks forward to his day in court when it will become clear that he has never forced anyone to engage in sexual acts against their will.”
The 54-year-old music mogul appeared in court wearing a greenish-tan prison jumpsuit, sporting overgrown grey hair and a beard. As he entered his plea, he stood before the judge and confirmed that he had read the indictment. Among those in attendance to support him were his son Christian, daughter Chance, mother Janice Combs, and publicist Marvet Britto.
A key point of contention in the courtroom was a video published by CNN in 2024, which allegedly shows Combs kicking his former girlfriend, Cassandra Ventura, in a hotel hallway in 2016. Prosecutors consider the footage “critical” to their case, while Combs’ legal team has dismissed it as “deceptive,” arguing that it was manipulated. Despite these claims, Combs publicly apologized for his actions in the video, stating, “I take full responsibility for my actions. I was disgusted then when I did it. I’m disgusted now.”
Aside from the federal charges, Combs is facing multiple civil lawsuits accusing him of rape and assault. His attorneys have dismissed these as attempts to seek publicity.
Jury selection for the trial is set to begin on May 5, with opening statements expected on May 12. As the legal battle unfolds, Combs remains resolute in his defense against the serious allegations that could define his legacy in the entertainment industry.
