Sean “Diddy” Combs made his latest court appearance on March 14, 2025, where he pleaded not guilty to new charges of forced labor, expanding the already serious legal case against him.
The hip-hop mogul, who has been facing multiple allegations of misconduct, appeared in Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center, where he has remained in custody after repeated bail denials.
Aging and Weary Appearance in Court
Witnesses at the courthouse described Diddy’s appearance as notably aged and weary, with graying facial hair and a heavier physique. He reportedly engaged in brief conversations with his legal team and family members present in the courtroom. His demeanor appeared calm but visibly exhausted as he listened to the latest allegations presented against him.
New Forced Labor Allegations
The new charges that Diddy pleaded not guilty to, allege that he coerced employees into working under extreme conditions through threats and intimidation. Prosecutors claim that one alleged victim was forced into non-consensual sexual conduct under the threat of losing their job and facing physical retaliation. These allegations add to the long list of legal troubles Combs has been battling, including previous sex trafficking and racketeering charges.
Video Evidence Under Scrutiny
During the hearing, Combs’ defense team challenged the legitimacy of a video that the prosecution intends to use as evidence. The video allegedly contains incriminating material, but Combs’ lawyers argue that it has been tampered with or edited to misrepresent events. The judge has ordered an independent forensic review of the footage before it can be admitted as evidence.
Trial Date Set for May 2025
The court has scheduled jury selection to begin on May 5, 2025, with the trial itself set to start on May 12, 2025. With Combs remaining in custody until trial, his legal team is expected to continue fighting for a bail reconsideration, though previous motions have been denied.
This case is part of a larger pattern of allegations against the music mogul. Over the past year, multiple civil lawsuits have been filed against Combs, accusing him of abuse, coercion, and financial manipulation within his businesses and personal relationships.
What’s Next for Diddy?
With the trial now set, the next steps in Combs’ legal battle will be the independent forensic review of evidence, potential additional witness testimonies, and further prosecution disclosures. If convicted of forced labor and sex trafficking, Combs could face decades in prison. His legal team continues to deny all allegations, calling them fabricated and financially motivated.
As the high-profile case unfolds, public interest remains high, and industry insiders are closely watching how it may impact Combs’ legacy and business empire. Stay tuned for further updates as the trial progresses.
![Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://themusicessentials.com/entertainment/gray-bearded-and-tired-diddy-pleads-not-guilty-in-forced-labor-case/&media=https://themusicessentials.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SEAN-DIDDY-FEDERAL-INDICTMENT-2.webp&description=Sean "Diddy" Combs pleads not guilty in his latest court appearance amid forced labor allegations. His trial is set for May 2025.){kind=link}