Sean Combs Faces Serious Charges in High-Profile Sex Trafficking Trial

NEW YORK, NY — Sean “Diddy” Combs, the famous hip-hop mogul, is at the center of a high-profile sex trafficking trial that began on May 5, 2025. Combs faces serious charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. He has assembled a strong team of defense lawyers with over 150 years of legal experience to handle his case.

The trial follows allegations spanning nearly two decades from 2004 to 2024. Prosecutors claim Combs coerced women into sexual acts and maintained a network of associates to intimidate and silence victims.

Combs has pleaded not guilty to all charges and rejected a plea deal. He is accused of orchestrating elaborate sexual performances known as “Freak Offs,” involving male sex workers. Prosecutors allege he used his celebrity status to manipulate and abuse women, creating a climate of fear.

The defense team is led by Marc Agnifilo, a seasoned lawyer known for representing high-profile clients, including NXIVM leader Keith Raniere. Agnifilo has participated in over 200 trials. He is joined by Teny Geragos, Alexandra Shapiro, and Brian Steel, among others, each contributing unique expertise to the case.

Shapiro, with over three decades of appellate experience, previously worked for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Manhattan. Steel gained national attention defending rapper Young Thug, which adds crucial credibility to the defense team.

During jury selection, potential jurors were asked about their familiarity with Combs and high-profile personalities associated with him. Names mentioned included actor Michael B. Jordan and rapper Kid Cudi. Jordan’s connection to the case stems from a past relationship with Cassie Ventura, Diddy’s ex-girlfriend and a key witness.

On May 7, delays in jury selection occurred as the prosecution sought additional time to finalize jurors. Controversy arose when Mark Geragos, a prominent lawyer not formally on Combs’ defense team, made derogatory comments about the prosecution on his podcast. Judge Arun Subramanian cautioned Geragos about maintaining decorum in court.

As the trial evolves, prosecutors aim to present evidence, including security footage of Combs allegedly assaulting Ventura. This footage, along with testimonies from four accusers, is expected to be pivotal for the prosecution.

In addition to the criminal case, Combs is also facing over 60 civil lawsuits alleging sexual assault and other misconduct. Attorney Andrew Van Arsdale, representing 37 clients pursuing civil claims, noted that he has identified over 400 potential new claims. Many claimants have voiced fears of retaliation, further delaying their willingness to come forward.

Van Arsdale’s firm has received about 27,000 calls regarding accusations against Combs, with 15,000 claims deemed credible for potential suits. This surge illustrates the allegations’ profound impact on Combs’ reputation.

The criminal trial is expected to last at least eight weeks, raising the possibility of a life sentence if Combs is convicted. The opening statements are set for May 12, 2025. As the trial unfolds, public attention will remain on the courtroom as Combs’ team works to challenge the prosecution’s case.