Prosecutors in the ongoing sex trafficking case against Sean Diddy Combs, founder of Bad Boy Records, have requested that the judge deny his bail request, citing allegations that he has been attempting to sway public opinion and interfere with witnesses while incarcerated. This marks a significant development in the high-profile case.
Prosecutors Allege Rule Violations and Witness Interference
Prosecutors submitted a filing in Manhattan federal court on Friday, November 15, 2024, arguing against the rapper’s proposed USD 50 million bail. According to reports from Billboard, the court documents reveal that Diddy allegedly used his time in custody to influence prospective jurors and contact witnesses, a move they claim could jeopardize the integrity of the upcoming trial.
In the filing, prosecutors stated that they reviewed recorded prison calls in which Diddy purportedly instructed his family members to reach out to potential witnesses and victims. He reportedly asked them to create “narratives” aimed at influencing public opinion and potentially shaping the jury’s perspective. Prosecutors also claimed that Diddy employed marketing strategies to steer online conversations in his favor.
Prosecutors described these actions as deliberate attempts to flout court rules, stating:
“The defendant has shown repeatedly — even while in custody — that he will flagrantly and repeatedly flout rules to improperly impact the outcome of his case.”
Repeated Bail Attempts and New Allegations
This marks Diddy’s third attempt to secure bail, with previous requests being denied. Defense attorneys argue that new evidence warrants his release to better prepare for the trial. Prosecutors, however, contend that the latest bail proposal relies on information already available to the defense team during earlier applications.
Prosecutors allege that Sean Diddy Combs coordinated an online campaign during his birthday celebrations, enlisting family members to post celebratory videos on social media. These videos were reportedly analyzed for engagement metrics, with discussions from jail focusing on maximizing their impact on potential jurors.
In another recorded call, prosecutors claim Sean Diddy Combs discussed anonymously releasing information to support his defense. They wrote:
“The defendant’s efforts to obstruct the integrity of this proceeding also includes relentless efforts to contact potential witnesses, including victims of his abuse who could provide powerful testimony against him.”
Defense Lawyers Seek Bail for Trial Preparation
Sean Diddy Combs’s legal team has emphasized that his release is critical for preparing his defense, citing new developments in the case. They argue that he poses no risk of flight and should be granted bail to focus on the impending trial.
The bail hearing is scheduled for next week, where the court will address these accusations and determine whether Diddy will remain behind bars as his trial approaches.
For more updates on Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ case, tune in to Vviptimes.
Sources:
Billboard