Hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs was denied bail once again on Wednesday, despite his legal team’s second attempt to secure his release from what they described as “horrific” jail conditions as he awaits trial in a sex-trafficking case. A New York federal judge remanded Combs into custody on Tuesday after prosecutors labeled him a “serious flight risk.”
The 54-year-old musician was arrested earlier this week, accused of orchestrating a criminal enterprise dating back to at least 2008, which allegedly used drugs and violence to force women to satisfy his sexual demands, according to prosecutors.
Combs has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His defense team proposed a bail package that included a $50 million bond, co-signed by Combs, his mother, and other family members, alongside home detention, passport surrender, weekly drug tests, and a visitor log. However, the judge rejected the proposal.
“My primary concern is the risk of obstruction of justice and witness tampering,” said Judge Andrew Carter during the hearing. Following the ruling, Combs’s attorney, Marc Agnifilo, expressed disappointment, stating, “The ruling didn’t go our way, but the fight continues.”
The 14-page indictment accuses Combs of racketeering, sex trafficking by force, and transportation for prostitution. If convicted on all counts, he could face 15 years to life in prison. Combs maintained his innocence in court, responding with a “not guilty” plea.
Agnifilo revealed that the defense team has already appealed the bail decision, asserting, “We believe in him wholeheartedly. He didn’t do these things.” The indictment follows multiple sexual assault allegations against Combs, including lawsuits from four women, one of whom is musician Cassie Ventura, accusing him of sexual and physical abuse.
Combs has consistently denied the claims, referring to them as “sickening allegations” made by individuals seeking financial gain. His reputation has taken a hit, with the ceremonial “Key to the City of New York” being returned in June after a request from Mayor Eric Adams, and Howard University revoking his honorary degree shortly afterward.
Combs is known for his influence in shaping the careers of artists like Usher, Mary J. Blige, and The Notorious B.I.G. in the 1990s and 2000s.