Sean “Diddy” Combs, the prominent music mogul facing charges of sex trafficking and related offenses, has been denied bail for the fourth time. Federal Judge Arun Subramanian ruled there is “clear and convincing evidence” that Combs poses a danger to the community and presents a significant risk of witness tampering, leaving no conditions sufficient to guarantee public safety.
Serious Allegations and Evidence
The court reviewed video evidence of a 2016 incident involving Combs and his former protégé, Cassie Ventura, which prosecutors claim demonstrates his propensity for violence. Despite defense arguments that the footage was manipulated, the judge found it compelling. Additional evidence included text messages where Ventura detailed alleged physical abuse and injuries inflicted by Combs.
Prosecutors also alleged that Combs attempted to influence witnesses from jail and orchestrated a public campaign through his children to sway public opinion. The defense countered, asserting his actions were protected free speech.
Rejected Bail Proposal
Combs’ legal team proposed strict home confinement under constant private security, with limited communications and visitor restrictions. However, the judge expressed doubts, citing Combs’ prior misconduct, including using other inmates’ phone access codes to evade monitoring at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn.
Judge Subramanian stated, “Given the nature of the allegations and Combs’ history, the Court cannot reasonably assure compliance with any conditions of release.”
Consistent Judicial Rulings
This decision aligns with three previous rulings by a federal magistrate, a district court judge, and an appeals court judge, all of whom concluded that Combs could not be safely released. Prosecutors maintain that the risks of witness tampering and public endangerment remain too high.
Combs will remain in custody at MDC-Brooklyn as he awaits trial. A date for the proceedings has not yet been set.
