Sean “Diddy” Combs, who is awaiting trial on accusations of sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy, will continue to be detained after a federal court rejected his most recent plea for parole. The ruling comes after two other judges had previously rejected it.
No restrictions could sufficiently guarantee the community’s safety, according to Judge Arun Subramanian, who rendered the decision on Wednesday. This ruling followed a two-hour court session during which Combs’ actions while in custody were questioned.
Judge Subramanian’s five-page ruling referenced the prosecutors’ unmistakable and compelling proof that Combs was dangerous to others and persisted in obstructing the inquiry, even while in federal detention.
Combs disregarded court orders, tampered with witnesses, and broke jail regulations, according to federal prosecutors. They claimed that in order to influence public opinion and maybe jurors, he planned a social media campaign around his birthday and used three-way calling to get around surveillance.
The court highlighted Combs’ disregard for jail rules, particularly his continuous use of the messaging app ContactMeASAP. The defense’s assertions were undermined when prosecutors disclosed that he had used the service as recently as November 24, despite his legal team’s assurances that he had stopped using it.
In addition to a $50 million bond and round-the-clock private protection at a monitored Manhattan apartment, Combs’ lawyers suggested a stringent bail package. They contended that these measures would allow him to better prepare for his case and impose more constraints than federal jail.
The judge, however, rejected these suggestions, voicing doubts about their viability. He explicitly turned down Combs’ request to stay at his Miami residence, stating that the opulent features, such as a boat dock, would not meet the court’s standards.
Combs faces accusations of prostitution-related offenses, racketeering, and sex trafficking. The hip-hop entrepreneur was arrested in September, entered a not-guilty plea, and is scheduled to go on trial on May 5.
Judges have already rejected Combs’ requests for release, citing his ability to thwart the legal system and jeopardize the community. His legal team has persisted in advocating for his release in spite of these obstacles, arguing that it is required for the preparation of his case.
Given his prominent position and the seriousness of the accusations, Combs’ case has received a lot of attention. As long as he is in detention, the court will continue to prioritize public safety and the integrity of the investigation.
