NEW YORK (AP) — Attorneys for hip-hop producer Sean "Diddy" Combs have filed a motion with a federal judge in New York, requesting a two-month delay for his upcoming sex-trafficking trial, scheduled for May 5. The defense argues that this postponement is necessary for them to adequately prepare a thorough defense.
The defense lawyers indicated in a letter to Judge Arun Subramanian that the prosecution has been slow in providing essential evidence for their review, which is hindering their preparation efforts with only three weeks remaining before the trial. Despite their request, prosecutors have opposed this motion, according to the defense’s statements. A spokesperson for the prosecution declined to comment on these proceedings.
In response to the defense's request, Judge Subramanian noted in an order that he would consider the issue during a scheduled hearing on Friday. Until then, he instructed both parties to proceed as if the trial will commence as planned in early May.
Sean Combs, 55, is currently being held without bail following his arrest in September. He has pleaded not guilty to several charges stemming from allegations that span a two-decade period. The gravity of the charges includes serious accusations against him, suggesting a pattern of coercion and abuse of women while utilizing his fame and influence in the music industry.
The defense team outlined in their correspondence that prosecutors have failed to deliver some key evidence in a timely manner, especially concerning a recent superseding indictment issued by a grand jury. They emphasized that certain materials, which are critical to the case, have not yet been made available. Specifically, they highlighted a missed Wednesday deadline for prosecutors to provide both exhibits and a witness list.
Among the unturned evidence, the defense noted materials linked to a charge that carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 15 years if a conviction is achieved. This lack of crucial evidence creates significant concern for the defense, leading them to conclude: “We cannot, in good conscience, go to trial on the scheduled date.” They further criticized the prosecution, suggesting, "This is a problem that the government has created, yet it opposes our reasonable request."
Prosecutors allege that Combs has coerced and abused women over many years, employing his "power and prestige" as a music star to recruit a network of associates and employees to assist him. The legal documents presented by the prosecution describe a disturbing narrative where Combs allegedly silenced his victims through methods of blackmail, violence, kidnapping, arson, and physical beatings.
As the trial date approaches, both the defense and prosecution are preparing for the hearings that will determine the course of the case. The resolution of the trial delay request remains pending, and all eyes are on the upcoming hearing set for Friday.
