Sean “Diddy” Combs appeared in a Manhattan courtroom on Thursday for a final pretrial hearing ahead of his criminal trial, where he confirmed to the judge that he had rejected a plea deal offered by federal prosecutors.
The Bad Boy Records founder entered the courtroom dressed in a tan jail jumpsuit, looking noticeably thin and gray. Despite the gravity of the situation, Diddy maintained a positive demeanor, smiling and chatting with his attorneys, Teny Geragos and Brian Steel, at the defense table.
Plea Deal Rejected: Diddy Faces Serious Charges
When asked by the judge if he had turned down the plea offer, Diddy replied confidently, “Yes, I did.” The judge also informed Diddy of the potential consequences if convicted, noting that he could face more time in prison than if he had accepted the plea deal. Diddy acknowledged that he understood the stakes.
Trial to Begin Next Week: Jury Selection Starts May 5
As the criminal trial approaches, the judge set the jury selection process to begin Monday, May 5, with the goal of selecting a jury within just three days.
Diddy is currently facing five serious charges: two counts of sex trafficking, two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, and one count of racketeering. Despite the charges, Diddy has pleaded not guilty to all of them.
Diddy’s Upcoming Trial and Jail Uniform Update
In a surprising twist, this may be the last time fans see Diddy in a jail uniform. The judge ruled that Diddy would be allowed to wear button-down dress shirts, pants, and shoes (without laces) during his trial.
Stay tuned as Diddy’s criminal case heads to court soon, and more details unfold in the weeks ahead.