Attorneys for hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs are asking a federal judge to postpone his upcoming trial, originally scheduled for May 5, citing prosecutorial delays in turning over key evidence. The legal team is requesting a two-month extension to properly prepare a defense in what’s shaping up to be one of the most high-profile federal criminal cases in the entertainment industry in recent memory.
In a letter sent Wednesday to Judge Arun Subramanian of the Southern District of New York, Combs’ lawyers argued that federal prosecutors have failed to meet critical deadlines, including the delivery of their witness list and exhibits, which were due that same day.
“We cannot, in good conscience, go to trial on the scheduled date,” the letter stated.
“This is a problem that the government has created, yet it opposes our reasonable request.”
The defense claims this delay has put them at a significant disadvantage, especially given that one of the charges carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years if Combs is convicted.
Missing Evidence and Mounting Pressure
According to the filing, prosecutors have yet to turn over material evidence tied to some of the most serious counts in the indictment, including evidence related to an alleged sex-trafficking charge, which alone could carry decades behind bars.
The defense insists that without adequate time to review all the material, their ability to mount a fair and thorough defense will be compromised — a claim that could become a point of contention if the trial moves forward on its original date.
While prosecutors reportedly oppose the request, they have not publicly commented on the issue. A spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s Office declined to provide a statement.
What’s at Stake?
Diddy’s trial stems from a wide-ranging federal indictment filed earlier this year, which includes multiple charges related to alleged trafficking, coercion, and criminal conspiracy. Though Combs has denied all allegations, the case has drawn intense media attention and further scrutiny of the music mogul’s long career and business dealings.
This request to delay the trial adds to an already complex legal timeline. If granted, a two-month postponement would likely push the start of the trial into mid-July, giving defense attorneys additional time to analyze evidence and prepare responses to the government’s case.
Legal experts say such requests aren’t uncommon in cases with large volumes of evidence, but they are more likely to be granted when delays are caused by the prosecution itself.
“If the government hasn’t fulfilled its discovery obligations, the court may see a delay as necessary to preserve the defendant’s right to a fair trial,” said one former federal prosecutor.
What’s Next?
Judge Subramanian is expected to respond to the request in the coming days. Until then, the May 5 trial date technically remains on the calendar, though that could change at any moment.
One thing is clear: as this case heats up, both sides are preparing for a legal battle that will be anything but ordinary.
