A judge on Wednesday denied bail to the rapper known as “Diddy” after he was charged with sex trafficking and racketeering, according to a court filing.
Judges had already denied bail to the rapper – real name Sean Combs – twice and prosecutors opposed a third bid, alleging that the rapper and producer contacted witnesses and used unauthorized communication platforms while imprisoned. Did.
“For the following reasons, Combs’ motion is denied – no condition or combination of conditions would reasonably ensure the safety of the community,” federal judge Arun Subramanian said in an order.
Arun Subramaniam also rejected Combs’ application for release from custody to prepare his defence.
“Combs has not met the burden of demonstrating that release from custody is necessary to prepare for trial,” the judge wrote.
Federal prosecutors allege that Combs, 55, sexually assaulted women and forced them to attend drug-fueled sex parties using threats and violence.
He has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and his criminal trial is currently scheduled to begin on May 5, 2025.
Wednesday’s decision follows Sean Combs’ court appearance last weekend.
Outside the Manhattan courthouse, onlookers shouted at Combs’ mother, Janice Combs, “Your son is a predator.” Other family members were seen outside the hearing.
Lawyers for Sean Combs argued that the bail granted to former Abercrombie CEO Mike Jeffries, a defendant in another major federal sex trafficking case, should apply to their client.
“The nature and circumstances of the crimes are quite different,” prosecutors wrote to the court on Friday.
“There is no allegation that Jeffries committed non-trafficking-related violent acts or that he used firearms during the charged period. The indictment against Combs charges both.
“With respect to the crimes charged, Jeffries does not engage in racketeering crimes. In contrast, Combs is accused of leading a racketeering enterprise.”
Prosecutors have previously indicated that there is still more evidence to be discovered and that more charges could be added to the indictment against Combs.
Public allegations have been made against the Grammy winner since late last year, when singer Cassie, whose real name is Cassandra Ventura, accused Combs of coercing her with physical force and drugs for more than a decade. -Also raped in 2018.
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