Sean “Diddy” Combs faces a complex legal journey following his recent indictment on federal sex crimes charges, according to legal experts.
Indictment and Allegations
On September 16, 2024, Combs, 54, was arrested at a Manhattan hotel on charges including sex trafficking by force, racketeering conspiracy, and transportation to engage in prostitution. The indictment, unsealed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York on September 17, outlines serious allegations against the music mogul.
According to the indictment, Combs is accused of orchestrating and recording “freak offs,” wherein female victims were allegedly drugged and coerced into sexual acts under the guise of romantic relationships. The indictment also notes that during recent raids on his properties in Miami and Los Angeles, investigators uncovered three AR-15 rifles and 1,000 bottles of baby oil and lubricant.
Legal Analysis
Neama Rahmani, a former federal prosecutor and president of West Coast Trial Lawyers, tells PEOPLE that the case is expected to go to trial. “This case is 100 percent going to trial,” Rahmani asserts. Given the severity of the charges, which carry potential sentences ranging from 15 years to life in prison, Rahmani does not anticipate Combs will accept a plea deal.
At his arraignment on September 17, Combs pleaded not guilty, a stance that Rahmani suggests aligns with the gravity of the charges. “Diddy is not going to take any deal where he’s going to spend decades in federal prison,” Rahmani explains.
Detention Hearing and Bail
The next step in the legal process is a detention hearing, which must occur within three court days of the initial appearance. Diddy’s defense team has proposed a $50,000 bond as part of a bail package. However, prosecutors have requested that Combs be denied bail, arguing that he poses a flight risk and a danger to the community.
Rahmani notes the significance of the detention hearing. “Being out on bond or being detained is going to make a big difference in the case, in terms of strategy and the whole appearance,” he says. He adds that while Combs has not fled, which may favor the defense, the serious nature of the charges, including threats to witnesses and possession of firearms, could influence the judge’s decision.
Trial Timeline and Defense Strategy
Typically, a trial is scheduled within 70 days of an initial appearance due to the right to a speedy trial. However, defendants often waive this right, making a trial before the end of the year unlikely. Rahmani anticipates that Diddy will file pretrial motions to challenge the indictment and evidence.
Pretrial Motions
Before the trial commences, Diddy’s legal team is expected to submit various pretrial motions aimed at dismissing some charges or suppressing evidence.
For Support
For those affected by sexual assault, support is available through the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or visit rainn.org.