Sean 'Diddy' Combs, the hip-hop mogul and Bad Boy Records founder, has been denied bail for the third time while facing federal charges of sex trafficking and racketeering. Combs has been held in a federal jail in Brooklyn since his arrest in September, despite offering $50 million for bail.
Prosecutors argued that Combs posed a flight risk and had attempted to influence witnesses and intimidate victims from behind bars. They raised concerns about a potential two-tiered justice system if Combs' bail proposal, which included hiring a private security firm for house arrest, was accepted.
The judge ordered federal prosecutors to delete images of Combs' handwritten notes, citing attorney-client privilege. The notes referenced obtaining 'dirt' on potential witnesses, which prosecutors had previously used in court.
Prosecutors also highlighted Combs' history of violence and obstruction, alleging that he had threatened and physically abused staff and sexual partners. They argued that his release could endanger victims and witnesses.
Despite Combs' repeated attempts at bail, the judge has kept him behind bars, with a trial scheduled for May 5 next year. The U.S. attorney overseeing the case may change with President-elect Donald Trump's nominee, Jay Clayton, potentially taking over.
Combs has denied all allegations of abuse, including those from his ex-girlfriend Cassie, who sued him for physical and sexual abuse. Combs settled her civil lawsuit after a video surfaced showing him assaulting her in a hotel hallway.
New accusers have continued to come forward, with attorney Tony Buzbee representing over 100 individuals seeking legal action against the rapper.
