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Diddy Seeks Delay in Upcoming Criminal Trial
Sean “Diddy” Combs is requesting a postponement of his criminal trial, currently scheduled to commence on May 12. This request was revealed in a court letter that has been obtained by various media outlets.
Combs’ legal team is seeking a two-month extension, citing new evidence introduced by prosecutors in the latest superseding indictment as the primary reason for the request. The prosecution, however, intends to maintain the existing trial date without delays.
In the court documents, Diddy’s defense team expressed concern regarding the prosecution’s handling of discovery, stating, “The government opposes our proposed reasonable adjournment request, even though it is still producing discovery, including discovery on Count Four — a 15-year mandatory minimum count.” The defense noted that the prosecution indicated, against their objections, that it would not provide necessary exhibits and a witness list by the mandated deadline, nor additional material related to witness statements while the adjournment request is under consideration. They emphasized that moving forward with the trial under these conditions would be irresponsible given the incomplete discovery regarding a charge carrying a mandatory minimum sentence.
The defense further argued, “This is a problem that the government has created, yet it opposes our reasonable request.”
Judge Arun Subramanian is expected to make a ruling on this matter on Friday. In a recent communication regarding the case, Judge Subramanian advised the parties to continue with the scheduled timeline and fulfill all necessary disclosures. He also noted that he would address specific evidentiary issues related to one of the alleged victims during the forthcoming conference. Should Combs submit a revised application regarding this evidence, the court will consider it promptly.
In related developments, Brian Steel, the attorney formerly representing Young Thug, has filed documents to join Combs’ defense team, following the recent withdrawal of attorney Anthony Ricco from the case.
Diddy’s legal team has also submitted a motion to obtain raw footage from the ID documentary titled “The Fall of Diddy,” citing that two individuals who are set to testify against him participated in the project.
In September, Combs was indicted on multiple serious charges, including racketeering, conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation for the purpose of engaging in prostitution. The indictment claims that Combs and his associates exploited his “power and prestige” to intimidate and manipulate victims under the guise of romantic relationships, ultimately coercing them into sexual activities.
A subsequent superseding indictment in January alleged that Diddy resorted to physical violence and forced labor against some of his employees. Most recently, a third superseding indictment highlighted two counts of sex trafficking, two counts of transportation related to prostitution, and a count of racketeering against him.
Throughout these proceedings, Diddy has categorically denied any allegations of misconduct.
Source
extratv.com