A federal judge in New York has denied bail for Sean “Diddy” Combs as he prepares for a trial related to serious sex trafficking charges. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian cited significant concerns about Combs’ potential to tamper with witnesses and his attempts to conceal prohibited communications while in custody.
During a recent bail hearing, Combs’ legal team proposed a $50 million bail package, arguing it would ensure he doesn’t flee or attempt to intimidate witnesses. However, Judge Subramanian was not convinced, agreeing with other judges that Combs poses a danger to the community if released. He pointed to compelling evidence that indicated a tendency for violence associated with the hip-hop icon.
At 55 years old, Combs has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges claiming he coerced and abused women with the help of associates and employees. The indictment alleges that he engaged in tactics like blackmail and violence to silence victims.
A previous decision by a federal appeals court judge also upheld the denial of Combs’ request for immediate release as his case was under review. Judge Subramanian took a closer look at the facts and arguments surrounding the bail request before making his ruling.
Prosecutors firmly believe that no bail conditions would be adequate to protect the public or prevent Combs from attempting to flee. Even while in a federal facility, they claim he has orchestrated social media campaigns aimed at influencing potential jurors and made efforts to communicate with witnesses through third parties.
Defense lawyers, however, maintain that the alleged actions in the indictment were consensual and argue that new evidence contradicts the prosecution’s claims. They assert that any prior misconduct is being misrepresented.
Judge Subramanian expressed serious concern over Combs’ ability to tamper with witnesses, especially after evidence showed he had communicated with a grand jury witness and deleted relevant messages. Additionally, the judge highlighted that Combs had violated prison rules by paying fellow inmates for unauthorized phone calls and attempting to manipulate communication methods to avoid detection.
The judge concluded that any proposal for release would not sufficiently prevent Combs from engaging in similar behavior, citing a lack of trust in both Combs and those associated with him to comply with conditions. In light of the serious allegations, Subramanian noted that even the strictest home confinement would not be enough to ensure public safety.
