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Sean “Diddy” Combs Requests Delay in Sex Trafficking Trial
NEW YORK – Attorneys representing hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs have formally requested a federal judge in New York to postpone his impending sex-trafficking trial, initially scheduled for May 5. The defense team is seeking a two-month extension to adequately prepare for the legal proceedings.
Defense Cites Evidence Disclosure Issues
In a letter submitted to Judge Arun Subramanian, Combs’ legal representatives asserted that the prosecution’s delayed disclosure of potential evidence is hindering their ability to construct a robust defense within the current three-week timeframe.
Prosecution Opposes Delay
According to the defense, prosecutors are opposing the request for a trial adjournment. A spokesperson for the prosecuting body declined to issue a public statement on the matter.
Judge to Address Request at Hearing
Judge Subramanian acknowledged the defense’s plea in a court order, stating that he would address the trial postponement request during a scheduled hearing on Friday.
Trial Date Remains Pending Conference
The judge directed both the defense and prosecution to proceed with preparations as though the early May trial date remains unchanged, pending the outcome of the upcoming conference.
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Combs Detained Without Bail
Combs, 55, has been in custody without bail since his arrest in September. He has entered a plea of not guilty to multiple charges stemming from alleged offenses spanning two decades.
Insufficient Time for Defense Preparation
Defense lawyers highlighted the prosecution’s failure to provide potential trial evidence promptly, including documents pertaining to a superseding indictment issued by a grand jury earlier this month.
Evidence Deadline Missed
Specifically, the defense letter stated that prosecutors indicated they would fail to meet a Wednesday deadline for submitting trial exhibits and a list of potential witnesses.
Serious Charges and Evidence Review
The defense emphasized that crucial evidence yet to be disclosed includes materials related to a charge in the indictment that carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years upon conviction.
“Good Conscience” Prevents Trial Readiness
Based on these evidentiary concerns, Combs’ legal team asserted, “We cannot, in good conscience, proceed to trial on the currently scheduled date.”
Defense Blames Government Delay
The defense further stated, “This predicament has been created by the government’s actions, yet they oppose our reasonable request for additional time.”
Prosecution Alleges Coercion and Abuse
Prosecutors contend that Combs engaged in the coercion and abuse of women over several years, leveraging his influence and celebrity status within the music industry to enlist associates and employees in his alleged scheme. They further claim he silenced victims through intimidation and violence, including kidnapping, arson, and physical assaults.