Sean 'Diddy' Combs to Appeal Bail Decision in Sex Trafficking Indictment Hearing
Sean "Diddy" Combs is set to find out on Wednesday afternoon whether he will remain held without bail on charges including sex trafficking by force, transportation for prostitution, and racketeering conspiracy.
Combs’ attorney, Marc Agnifilo, has appealed Judge Robyn Tarnofsky’s decision from Tuesday to deny bail to the 54-year-old while awaiting trial. The appeal hearing is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday.
The indictment, unsealed Tuesday, accuses Combs of running an "enterprise" involved in sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, and other crimes. Federal prosecutors claim Combs “abused, threatened, and coerced women and others to satisfy his sexual desires, protect his image, and cover up his actions” from 2008 until now. These allegations are similar to the 11 civil complaints filed against him since 2023.
In explaining the decision to deny bail, Judge Tarnofsky stated, “This is a crime that happens behind closed doors,” expressing concern over Combs' potential threat to the community. Prosecutors argued that Combs not only poses a danger but also a significant risk of obstructing justice, claiming he has tried to bribe security staff and intimidate witnesses involved in his criminal activities.
Prosecutors further stated that Combs has already interfered with the investigation by contacting victims and witnesses, presenting them with false narratives. They argued that there are no conditions that would guarantee he would stop attempting to obstruct justice or tamper with witnesses.
Agnifilo, however, requested the judge to grant Combs release on a $50 million bail package, insisting his client is not a flight risk. He mentioned that Combs voluntarily came to New York on September 5 to face the charges and that his passport, along with those of five family members, has been handed over. The defense lawyer also noted that Combs is in the process of selling his private plane to further demonstrate his commitment to stay.
“We have earned the government’s trust,” Agnifilo told the judge, pointing out that Combs' whereabouts had been shared during trips, such as attending a child’s graduation and a rafting outing.
ABC News' Aaron Katersky, Luke Barr, Josh Margolin, and Sasha Pezenik contributed to this report.
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