Sean “Diddy” Combs has rejected a plea deal in his federal sex trafficking and racketeering case, opting to fight the charges at trial, set for May 5, 2025, in Manhattan federal court.
During a hearing on April 25, 2025, Combs’ attorney, Marc Agnifilo, defended his client’s actions, arguing that Combs lived a consensual “swinger” lifestyle, not a criminal one, according to Reuters.
Combs, 55, faces five serious charges, including two counts of sex trafficking, two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, and one count of racketeering conspiracy. He has pleaded not guilty to all counts. Prosecutors allege that from 2004 to 2024, Combs coerced women into drug-fueled sexual performances, known as “Freak Offs,” with male sex workers, often recording the events. The indictment claims he used threats, violence, and his business empire to facilitate these acts.
Diddy rejects plea deal, his lawyers argue that he’s a “swinger” not a criminal pic.twitter.com/uCxo5d93Nb
— No Jumper (@nojumper) April 26, 2025Agnifilo argued that the “swinger” lifestyle is common and relevant to Combs’ intent, stating, “He might have thought [it] was appropriate because it’s common.” Prosecutors countered, urging Judge Arun Subramanian to prevent Combs from referencing other public figures who hired escorts, a tactic Agnifilo said the defence would avoid.
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The case, which has drawn significant attention, was further complicated by a 2016 hotel surveillance video showing Combs assaulting his former girlfriend, Cassie Ventura. The video, ruled admissible at trial, depicts Combs kicking and dragging Ventura, adding weight to the prosecution’s claims.
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs is a ‘swinger’ but not a rapist, lawyer argues as rapper rejects plea deal ahead of trial https://t.co/VIilZjSqjL pic.twitter.com/VG6meV5jOF
— Page Six (@PageSix) April 25, 2025Public sentiment is mixed, with jury selection starting May 5 and the trial expected to last eight to ten weeks. Some social media users question the “swinger” defence, with one noting, “Swinging doesn’t justify trafficking,” while others debate its legal merit. Combs remains in custody at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Centre, having been denied bail thrice since his September 2024 arrest.
