NEW YORK — An attorney representing Sean “Diddy” Combs in his ongoing sex trafficking case has expressed a desire to withdraw from the defense team.
On Thursday, defense lawyer Anthony Ricco submitted a notice in Manhattan federal court indicating his intention to step down, stating that “under no circumstances can I continue to effectively serve as counsel.”
Ricco, part of a team of six attorneys advocating for Combs, did not elaborate on the reasons for his decision. The court must approve his departure before it is finalized.
Combs, aged 55, has pleaded not guilty to the sex trafficking accusations filed against him following his arrest in September. He remains in custody without the option for bail while awaiting his trial scheduled for May 5.
Federal prosecutors allege that he leveraged his considerable wealth and influence to exploit both female victims and male sex workers, coercing them into engaging in drug-related sexual acts. They further assert that he employed tactics of blackmail and violence to intimidate these individuals. Additionally, Combs is facing multiple lawsuits related to allegations of sexual assault.
Ricco mentioned that he had consulted with Combs’ lead attorney regarding his decision to leave the defense team and assured that this transition would not result in any postponements for the upcoming trial.
