The renowned music mogul and entrepreneur, has been denied bail for the third time by a New York City judge.
This decision comes as Combs faces a slew of serious charges, including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation for prostitution.
The court's ruling reflects growing concerns over potential witness tampering and misconduct. US District Judge Arun Subramanian emphasized that "no conditions of release could adequately ensure public safety or prevent interference with the judicial process."
Prosecutors have painted a grim picture of Combs's alleged activities, accusing him of running a "criminal enterprise" characterized by forced labor, kidnapping, and intimidation.
Further complicating his legal battles, prosecutors presented evidence suggesting that Combs misused jail communications to influence witnesses and sway public opinion.
They allege he sent hundreds of messages through an inmate messaging app, ContactMeASAP, and coerced individuals to post on social media in his defense.
Notably, this included orchestrating a video featuring his children to garner sympathy. Combs's defense team has vigorously contested these claims, arguing that his continued detention hampers their ability to prepare for his May 2025 trial.
They also disputed the legality of a recent search of Combs’s jail cell, during which prosecutors seized handwritten notes purportedly showing evidence of obstruction of justice.
Although Judge Subramanian ordered the destruction of these materials, citing attorney-client privilege, prosecutors contended that the privilege was void due to Combs’s alleged tampering efforts.
In addition to the criminal case, Combs is embroiled in dozens of civil lawsuits accusing him of abuse, coercion, blackmail, and threats, with some allegations involving underage victims.
Attorney Lisa Bloom, representing one of the accusers, stated, "He didn’t do this alone. Those who conspire with predators must also face justice." Despite offering a $50 million bail package, which included house arrest and restrictions such as no female visitors, the court rejected Combs's proposal. His appeals for release have repeatedly failed, leaving him detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn.
As prosecutors continue their investigation, they have left open the possibility of additional charges or defendants.
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