Sean “Diddy” Combs was denied bail once again on Wednesday, Nov. 27, after a federal judge ruled that his release posed a significant risk to community safety and witness tampering.
Judge Arun Subramanian issued the decision following Combs’ third bail hearing on Nov. 22. In his ruling, Subramanian stated that prosecutors had provided “clear and convincing evidence” that no conditions could ensure the safety of the community.
Judge Cites Risk of Witness Tampering
Subramanian highlighted Combs’ alleged attempts to contact an unnamed grand jury witness through calls and texts as a key factor in his decision. He further pointed to the charges against Combs, a cache of weapons discovered at his residences, and previous allegations of violence tied to the mogul and his associates.
These elements, Subramanian wrote, demonstrate “compelling evidence of Combs’s propensity for violence” and reinforce concerns about his potential to tamper with witnesses.
Prosecution and Defense at Odds
Combs has been in custody at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center since his September indictment on federal sex crime charges. Prosecutors argued against bail, alleging he led a “relentless campaign” to intimidate and blackmail witnesses, even from jail.
“The defendant’s goal is to blackmail victims and witnesses either into silence or providing testimony helpful to his defense,” prosecutors claimed in court filings.
Meanwhile, Combs’ defense attorneys proposed a $50 million bail package with strict conditions, including 24/7 monitoring, restricted communication, and a log of all calls and messages. They argued the government’s case was “thin” and described the detention center as “unfit” for pretrial detention.
Charges and Upcoming Trial
Combs faces multiple charges, including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation to engage in prostitution, linked to alleged “freak offs”—elaborate sex performances involving coerced participants. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
If granted bail, Combs’ attorneys said he would reside in a three-bedroom apartment on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, equipped with cameras and monitored security. However, the judge deemed these measures insufficient to mitigate the risks.
What’s Next for Combs?
Combs’ trial is set for May 2025. For now, he remains in custody as his legal team continues to challenge the prosecution’s claims.
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