Sean “Diddy” Combs has been accused of violating prison regulations by contacting potential witnesses in his upcoming sex trafficking trial. Federal prosecutors allege the music mogul has made “relentless efforts” to influence witness testimony through unauthorized means, including using other inmates’ phone accounts and three-way calls to speak with unapproved contacts.
In a court filing, prosecutors detailed how Mr. Combs, 55, instructed family members to communicate with potential witnesses. They also cited recorded phone calls as evidence of these alleged violations.
Best known for 1990s hits such as I’ll Be Missing You and Mo’ Money, Mo’ Problems, Mr. Combs has pleaded not guilty to all charges, maintaining his innocence. He has been held in custody since his arrest in September, with bail repeatedly denied due to concerns about witness tampering.
Allegations of Witness Manipulation
Prosecutors claim Mr. Combs orchestrated social media posts to influence public perception and potential jury members. They allege he worked with a woman referred to as “witness two” to draft a statement countering allegations made against him, and there is an inference that she was paid for her support.
The filing also accuses Mr. Combs of using prison phone accounts belonging to at least eight other inmates and directing payments to secure this access. Additionally, a birthday video featuring Mr. Combs’ seven children was cited as part of a broader strategy to sway public opinion, with prosecutors alleging he monitored audience engagement metrics to assess its impact.
Defense Seeks Bail Amid Harsh Conditions
Mr. Combs’ lawyers recently submitted a renewed bail request, proposing a $50 million package with 24-hour private security and house arrest. Lawyer Alexandra Shapiro argued that jail conditions, including frequent lockdowns and lack of access to necessary resources, have hindered his ability to prepare for trial.
Prosecutors, however, contend that Mr. Combs remains a significant risk to the integrity of the trial, citing his “uncanny ability” to influence others, including employees, family members, and prison inmates. They argue that no set of conditions, including private security, would mitigate these risks.
Legal Troubles Escalate
Mr. Combs’ legal challenges began in November 2023, when his former partner Cassandra “Cassie” Ventura filed a civil lawsuit alleging rape and physical assault. Although the lawsuit was quickly settled, it triggered further allegations and a federal investigation.
In March, federal agents raided his properties, leading to his September arrest on charges of sex trafficking and racketeering. Prosecutors have described the allegations as involving drug-fueled sexual exploitation events.
In addition to the criminal charges, Mr. Combs faces over two dozen civil lawsuits alleging sexual assault and exploitation. He has vehemently denied all allegations, maintaining that the encounters were consensual.
Next Steps
The court has yet to rule on Mr. Combs’ latest bail request. Meanwhile, his legal team continues to contest the allegations and prepare for trial under challenging conditions.
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