Sean "Diddy" Combs Pleads Not Guilty to New Federal Charges

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Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs is back in the headlines—this time, not for a chart-topping hit or a business deal, but for a federal case that’s growing more intense by the day. Earlier this month, a new superseding indictment was filed against Combs, adding two more serious charges to an already high-profile legal battle: one count of sex trafficking and another for transportation to engage in prostitution.

Combs appeared in court Monday afternoon, where he pleaded not guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Arun Subramanian. He waived a public reading of the new indictment, stating that he had already reviewed it with his legal team. These new charges increase the potential prison time he could face if convicted.

A Freight Train Toward Trial

During the hearing, Combs’ legal team hinted that they might request a delay in the trial, citing ongoing issues with receiving critical evidence. Specifically, they allege that the government has failed to turn over hundreds of thousands of emails and messages from a key witness, referred to as "Victim 4."

Combs’ attorneys argue that federal prosecutors are intentionally avoiding taking full possession of the material so they won't have to share it with the defense, a move they say is unfair and obstructive.

Prosecutors pushed back, saying the volume of data and resource limitations have slowed the process. Judge Subramanian encouraged the defense to narrow their request to help speed things along, but made it clear: this trial is moving full steam ahead. "We are a freight train moving toward trial," he said firmly, giving the defense just 48 hours to formally request a two-week adjournment if they intend to do so.

Trial Timeline and Witness List

The judge also acknowledged that the deadline for prosecutors to submit a witness list was pushed to Wednesday. However, he questioned the need for that list if the trial might be delayed.

Combs is currently facing five federal charges stemming from accusations that span years. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, he used his entertainment empire to sexually exploit women, committing acts of violence, trafficking, and obstruction.

A Fierce Legal Battle Ahead

Though Combs did not speak during the Monday hearing, his attorneys have repeatedly maintained his innocence, stating that the allegations come from former girlfriends involved in consensual relationships.

With the trial now set to begin next month, all eyes are on what could be one of the most significant celebrity trials in recent years. The outcome could reshape not only Combs’ legacy but also the broader conversation about power, consent, and accountability in the music industry.

Stay tuned to Escape Live for more updates as this story develops.