**Sean "Diddy" Combs Denied Bail for the Third Time Amid Racketeering and Trafficking Charges**
Sean “Diddy” Combs has been denied bail for the third time by a New York City judge, extending his stay at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. Mr. Combs, facing charges of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation for prostitution, has pleaded not guilty to the criminal allegations and denied over two dozen civil accusations of sexual assault.
US District Judge Arun Subramanian ruled against granting bail, citing concerns about potential witness tampering and ongoing misconduct while in custody. "The Court finds that the government has shown by clear and convincing evidence that no condition or combination of conditions will reasonably assure the safety of the community," the judge stated.
Evidence presented includes alleged attempts to tamper with witnesses, violations of prison regulations, and Mr. Combs’s alleged leadership of a criminal enterprise involving forced labor and kidnapping.
Did you read this?
Prosecutors argue that Mr. Combs has used his jail communications to influence witnesses and orchestrate online posts to sway public opinion. He reportedly sent hundreds of text messages using ContactMeASAP, a messaging service for federal inmates, contacting individuals outside his approved jail list. Allegations include instructing his children to post videos of a birthday celebration on social media to influence prospective jurors.
Defence attorneys contend that Mr. Combs needs to be released to adequately prepare for his trial, set for May 2025. They also criticized a recent search of his jail cell, which yielded handwritten notes on his legal strategy. Prosecutors were ordered to destroy the documents, but they argued the search was lawful due to Mr. Combs’s alleged obstruction of justice.
Lisa Bloom, attorney for Dawn Richards, one of Mr. Combs's accusers, claims he has contacted witnesses from prison, potentially influencing their statements. In an interview with BBC’s *Newsnight*, Ms. Bloom said phone records suggest one individual communicated with Mr. Combs over 100 times, possibly under coercion.
Dozens of civil lawsuits accuse Mr. Combs of coercion, blackmail, physical abuse, and assaults involving minors. Despite offering a $50 million bail package including house arrest and strict visitation rules, the court rejected the proposal. Mr. Combs even listed his Los Angeles and Miami properties for sale to secure bail but remains in custody as investigations continue.
Prosecutors have hinted at additional charges or co-defendants, with Ms. Bloom asserting that others involved in the alleged crimes should also face justice.
