Combs’ Legal Team Requests Trial Delay Over Document Challenges

Judges hand holding a gavel near documents

Sean “Diddy” Combs’ legal team is battling for more time as his May 5th sex-trafficking trial approaches, citing the prosecution’s failure to provide crucial evidence needed to mount a proper defense.

Quick Takes

Combs is seeking a two-month delay in his sex trafficking trial, originally scheduled for May 5, due to the prosecution’s slow release of evidence.
Defense lawyers argue they cannot proceed without reviewing materials related to a charge carrying a 15-year mandatory minimum sentence.
Prosecutors oppose the delay, claiming the issues stem from the defense’s actions.
Combs, 55, has been held without bail since September and faces potential life imprisonment if convicted on all charges.
Judge Arun Subramanian will rule on the postponement request during a hearing scheduled for Friday.

Defense Team Argues for Two-Month Trial Postponement

Sean “Diddy” Combs’ attorneys have filed a motion requesting a two-month delay in his sex trafficking trial, currently scheduled to begin May 5. The legal team insists they need additional time to review evidence, particularly related to a recently filed superseding indictment. At the heart of their concern is a charge carrying a 15-year mandatory minimum sentence, for which they claim the government has not completed the discovery process.

“We cannot, in good conscience, go to trial on the scheduled date,” Combs’ defense team stated in court documents. They emphasized that while they want a speedy trial, the current timeline doesn’t allow for adequate preparation to ensure a fair proceeding. The 55-year-old music mogul has been held without bail since his arrest in September and has consistently maintained his innocence against all charges.

Prosecution Pushes Back Against Delay Request

Federal prosecutors are opposing the delay request, suggesting that the defense is attempting to stall proceedings. The government has instructed both parties to continue preparing as if the original trial date remains in place. Prosecutors have accused Combs of using his “power and prestige” to coerce and abuse women over a period spanning two decades, allegedly involving associates in serious crimes including kidnapping and arson.

“This is a problem that the government has created, yet it opposes our reasonable request,” wrote Combs’ defense team in their filing. The lawyers pointed to missed deadlines for providing exhibits and a witness list, further complicating their ability to prepare an adequate defense.

Serious Allegations and Legal Challenges

Combs faces multiple serious charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. The indictment alleges that he ran a criminal enterprise that coerced women into drug-fueled sexual performances called “freak-offs.” If convicted on all counts, he could face life imprisonment. The case has drawn significant public attention, particularly after the release of a video allegedly showing Combs assaulting his former girlfriend Cassie Ventura, though his team has claimed the footage was edited.

“These are the same individuals, former long-term girlfriends, who were involved in consensual relationships. This was their private sex life, defined by consent, not coercion,” said a spokesperson for Combs regarding the allegations.

Friday Hearing Will Determine Trial Timeline

Judge Arun Subramanian has scheduled a hearing for Friday to address the delay request. Both parties have been directed to continue preparations as if the May 5 trial date remains in effect. The defense team’s motion emphasizes the court’s authority to grant continuances when new indictments could prejudice a defendant, arguing that this is precisely such a case given the serious nature of the charges and the government’s handling of evidence.

The defense has also raised concerns about what they describe as “racist” laws and overbroad search warrants used against Combs. These claims add another layer of complexity to an already high-profile case that has seen the former music industry titan’s reputation severely damaged. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has not publicly commented on the defense’s request for a trial delay.