Sean “Diddy” Combs’s sex-trafficking trial is scheduled to start on 5 May in New York, a federal judge said at a hearing on Thursday (October 10).
Combs’ appearance in Manhattan federal court this afternoon marks his first in front of Judge Arun Subramanian. The Hip-Hop mogul will be held in custody at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center until he goes to trial.
The troubled artist has being charged with racketeering, sex trafficking and transportation for the purpose of engaging in prostitution. If found guilty, Combs faces a minimum of 15 years in prison and up to a life sentence.
The Bad Boy Records founder previously pleaded not guilty to racketeering conspiracy and sex-trafficking counts following his indictment in September. The charges relate to accusations dating to 2008.
Earlier this week, Combs’ legal team appealed his jail stay, advocating for the release of Combs on a bail of $50 million USD. The judge denied the request, saying there were “no conditions” that could be imposed that would allow Combs to be properly monitored if released.
As previously reported, Combs was placed on suicide monitor at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center where he awaits trial for his alleged sex crimes as the 54-year-old’s mental state is unclear.
