Diddy Defense To Argue Combs a Swinger, Not A Rapist

Sean "Diddy" Combs' legal team, led by attorney Marc Agnifilo, revealed their defense strategy for his upcoming sex trafficking and racketeering trial, set to begin with jury selection on Monday, May 5. 

They plan to argue that Combs was living a consensual "swinger" lifestyle, not engaging in the criminal acts alleged by federal prosecutors. Agnifilo stated in a Manhattan federal court hearing that Combs believed his participation in group sexual activities, referred to as "freak offs," was acceptable within the swinger community, emphasizing that such a lifestyle is common and does not equate to rape or trafficking. 

He argued that Combs' intent was not criminal, as he thought these activities were consensual.

During the same hearing, prosecutors disclosed that Combs rejected a plea deal, the terms of which were not publicly detailed. This decision indicates Combs' intent to fight the charges at trial, facing potential life imprisonment if convicted. The judge, Arun Subramanian, ruled that Combs' lawyers could present the swinger argument but barred them from naming other prominent figures allegedly involved in similar lifestyles or who hired sex workers, to avoid prejudicing the trial.

Combs, arrested on September 16, 2024, faces charges of sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and transportation to engage in prostitution, with allegations dating back to 2008. 

Prosecutors claim he coerced women into sexual performances with male sex workers, using drugs, threats, and violence to ensure compliance. A 2016 hotel security video showing Combs assaulting his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura was ruled admissible as evidence, despite defense claims of manipulation. Combs has pleaded not guilty and remains detained at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center after multiple bail denials.

The defense’s strategy hinges on portraying Combs’ actions as consensual within a specific lifestyle, challenging the prosecution’s narrative of coercion and abuse. This approach comes amid numerous civil lawsuits and allegations from over 100 accusers, including claims of sexual assault and abuse spanning decades, which Combs denies.