Diddy Rejects Plea Deal in Federal S£x Trafficking Case as Judge Allows Damning Hotel Video

Disgraced music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs has rejected a plea deal in his ongoing federal sex trafficking and racketeering case, a federal prosecutor revealed during a hearing in New York on Friday.

Prosecutor Madison Smyser disclosed the plea offer during the pre-trial hearing but did not elaborate on the terms of the proposed deal. Combs, who faces five federal charges, has pleaded not guilty to all counts.

The charges stem from allegations that the rapper and producer used violence, intimidation, and coercion to force women into what have been described as “Freak Offs”—sex parties involving non-consensual acts.

In a major setback for Combs’ legal team, Judge Arun Subramanian ruled that surveillance footage from a 2016 hotel incident, showing Combs physically assaulting then-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, will be admitted as evidence.

Of the ruling on the video, legal analyst Mundaca said:
“It’s a huge win for the prosecution, and a tough loss for the defense. I can’t see how any jury member will be able to view that video and think favorably of Sean Combs. It’s going to be hard to watch. Visuals are so powerful at trial, they’re almost irreplaceable.”

Combs’ lawyers had previously argued the video was altered and should be inadmissible, but the judge disagreed.

The rapper has publicly apologized for the violent incident, stating:
“My behavior on that video is inexcusable. I take full responsibility for my actions in this video,” he said, adding that he has since sought therapy and rehab. “I’m not asking for forgiveness. I am truly sorry.”

Cassie Ventura, who recently settled a separate civil lawsuit against Combs, is expected to testify in person.

Jury selection is set for May 5, with opening statements scheduled for May 12. The trial is expected to last up to 10 weeks.

Combs maintains his not guilty plea to all charges and denies all other misconduct allegations.