NEW YORK, USA – Federal prosecutors have reiterated their opposition to bail for Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, alleging that the music mogul has attempted to tamper with witnesses, manipulate potential jurors, and violate jail protocols while awaiting trial on charges including sex trafficking and racketeering.
In a motion filed late Friday, November 15, 2024, prosecutors detailed claims that Combs used prison communication systems to contact witnesses, including alleged victims, in a bid to silence or influence their testimony.
They allege he used other inmates’ phone access codes and a third-party service called ContactMeASAP to make unauthorised calls.
Among the evidence cited is a redacted account of a call Combs made to one of his adult sons, which prosecutors argue demonstrates attempts to “blackmail victims and witnesses either into silence or providing testimony helpful to his defence.”
Social Media Campaigns and Public Perception
Prosecutors also accuse Combs of using his family and social media to sway public opinion and potentially influence jurors.
They pointed to a birthday video posted on Instagram by Combs’ son, Justin, which featured his children singing to their father while he listened over the phone from jail.
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Prosecutors allege Combs actively monitored analytics and audience engagement on the post to assess its impact.
“Defendant’s conduct shows a calculated effort to use his influence and resources to undermine the judicial process, even from behind bars,” the motion read.
Charges and Defence Strategy
Combs has pleaded not guilty to the federal charges, which include allegations that he orchestrated events dubbed “freak offs” involving coerced or forced participation in sexual acts.
Prosecutors describe these as highly organised events involving male sex workers and women.
In response, Combs’ defence team has pushed for a second bail hearing, arguing that the prosecution’s case is weak and based on misinterpreted evidence.
In a November 8 motion, his attorneys cited a 2016 video mentioned in the indictment, which allegedly shows Combs assaulting a woman.
They argue the footage depicts a consensual encounter within a long-term relationship, not evidence of coercion.
Combs’ legal team has proposed strict bail conditions, including home detention with 24/7 security monitoring and severe restrictions on his communication with anyone outside his defence team.
Judge’s Initial Denial and Next Steps
Combs was initially denied bail over concerns he posed a risk of witness tampering. The federal indictment alleges that his influence and resources make him capable of obstructing justice.
The trial is currently scheduled for May 2025, and prosecutors maintain that Combs’ actions since his arrest underscore the risks of granting him pre-trial release.
“Allowing Mr. Combs bail would jeopardise the integrity of the judicial process and pose a risk to the safety of witnesses involved in this case,” prosecutors stated.
As the case progresses, it remains one of the most high-profile criminal trials involving a music industry figure in recent memory.
