Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs has rejected a last minute plea deal. The decision comes as the high-profile case has garnered international attention, with legal experts closely monitoring developments.
“I have, your honor,” the ‘I’ll Be Missing You’ hitmaker is preparing to stand trial for sex crimes and during a pre-trial hearing in New York on Thursday (01.05.25), it was confirmed that jury selection will begin as scheduled on 5 May after the Bad Boy Records founder confirmed he wouldn’t sign an agreement offered by prosecutors. The case represents one of the most significant legal challenges facing a music industry figure in recent years.
According to MailOnline, the specific terms of the deal were not read out but prosecutors said Combs would have spent less time in jail if he accepted it than if he is found guilty at trial. Legal analysts suggest this indicates the severity of charges Combs currently faces.
The 55-year-old rapper’s lawyer Marc Agnifilo told the court that he and Diddy had discussed the agreement with him and had “came to a decision” together. Agnifilo has previously represented several high-profile clients throughout his distinguished legal career.
Judge Arun Subramanian then asked Combs to stand and confirm if he had read the offer. The federal judge has presided over numerous notable cases since his judicial appointment.
He replied: “I have, your honor.” Combs maintained a composed demeanor throughout the proceedings according to courtroom observers.
The judge then asked if he had “rejected the plea offer” and he confirmed: “Yes I did, your honor.” This decision marks a pivotal moment in the case, definitively moving the proceedings toward trial.
The court heard prospective jurors will be separated into groups of 50, with the first being held in a courtroom in New York’s federal court. They will answer detailed questions from lawyers from both sides and Combs will be present, though if any would-be juror needs to discuss a sensitive matter, it will be dealt with in private conference at the judge’s bench. This jury selection process is expected to be thorough and meticulous.
The judge also warned lawyer Lisa Bloom, who is representing accuser Dawn Richard, over her recent comments to the media, with Combs’ lawyer having objected to her “very disturbing” remarks. Richard is among several individuals who have brought allegations against the music mogul.
Judge Subramanian said all lawyers in the case must “adhere to their obligations under the rules of professional conduct” and vowed to “take appropriate action” if anyone breached the rules this close to trial because he would “not tolerate anything that would impair the defendant’s right to a jury trial.” The extensive media coverage surrounding the case has raised concerns about maintaining an impartial jury pool.
Earlier this week, the judge agreed Diddy can ditch prison-issue clothes for when the jury selection begins and for the remainder of the case, but set certain conditions. Such accommodations are not uncommon in high-profile criminal proceedings.
“The defendant Sean Combs, Inmate # 37452-054, will be permitted to receive non-prison clothing at the MDC to wear for his trial scheduled to begin on May 5, 2025,” he ruled. “He is permitted to have up to five button down shirts, up to five pairs of pants, up to five sweaters, up to five pairs of socks, and up to two pairs of shoes without laces to wear to court.” The Metropolitan Detention Center where Combs is currently held houses many high-profile defendants awaiting trial.
Diddy has denied the allegations against him but has been held without bail since his arrest in September 2024. Multiple bail appeals have been unsuccessful, with the court citing flight risk and potential witness intimidation concerns.
The case has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with many former associates distancing themselves from the music mogul. Industry observers note that Combs’ extensive business empire faces significant challenges regardless of the trial outcome.
Court documents reveal that prosecutors have gathered substantial evidence, including electronic communications, witness testimony, and financial records. The prosecution team has conducted extensive interviews in building their case against Combs.
If convicted, Combs could face substantial prison time, financial penalties, and permanent damage to his business interests and legacy in the music industry. The trial is expected to feature heightened security measures throughout the proceedings, reflecting the high-profile nature of the case.
