The hearing, scheduled for 2 p.m. EDT (1800 GMT) in Manhattan federal court before U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian, will require Combs, 55, to respond to the revised indictment. The trial date remains set for May 5.
Previously, Combs entered a not guilty plea to charges including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking and transportation for prostitution purposes.
The updated indictment, whilst not introducing additional charges, details what prosecutors describe as “forced labour” linked to the racketeering conspiracy.
Prosecutors allege that Combs and associates exercised control over employees through extended work hours, minimal rest, and threats of physical, financial, psychological and reputational harm.
Defence attorney Marc Agnifilo maintains that his client never coerced anyone into unwanted sexual activities.Manhattan U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecutors assert that Combs utilised his business ventures, including Bad Boy Entertainment, to sexually abuse women between 2004 and 2024.The allegations include Combs orchestrating recorded sexual performances termed “freak offs” involving male sex workers, sometimes transported across states.
Agnifilo contends these encounters were consensual.
Combs faces numerous civil lawsuits alleging sexual assault and misconduct, all of which he denies.
Friday’s proceedings will address jury selection challenges, considering Combs’ celebrity status and extensive media coverage.
Prosecution seeks to begin jury selection on April 21 to conclude before July 4, while defence advocates for a May 5 start, citing fairness concerns.
Combs remains in Brooklyn detention since his September 2024 arrest.
Previously known as Puff Daddy and P. Diddy, Combs established Bad Boy Records, helping launch careers of artistes like Mary J. Blige, Faith Evans, Notorious B.I.G. and Usher during the 1990s and 2000s.
His career suffered following federal raids on his Los Angeles and Miami Beach, Florida, residences in early 2024, leading to the sex trafficking indictment.
