Judge Delays Decision on Diddy’s Bail in Sex-Trafficking Case
Hearing Pushed Back to Next Week
A decision on whether Sean "Diddy" Combs’ will be released on bail was pushed back to next week by the judge overseeing his sex-trafficking case. During a hearing on Friday in Manhattan federal court, U.S. District Judge Aran Subramanian asked Combs’ attorneys and prosecutors to file paperwork by Monday outlining specific terms of his release.
Combs Appears in Court
Combs, who appeared thin, waved and blew kisses to his mother and children seated in the second row of the gallery.
Prosecutors Oppose Bail
Prosecutor Christy Slavik argued that it would be dangerous to grant Combs’ request. "He is paying his way out of custody and continues to flout the rules, he is a risk of flight, a danger to the community, he’s obstructing and trying to subvert the integrity of these proceedings," Slavik said.
Defense Argues for Bail
Defense attorney Marc Agnifilo said that if Combs were released, he would stay in a three-bedroom apartment on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. He would be guarded by Patriot Security, a private company, and would be allowed to call only his attorneys. Only counsel and family members could visit.
Judge Expresses Concerns
Subramanian said he was concerned about family or security, paid for by Combs, reaching out to victims or witnesses on his behalf and wanted more clarification on how Combs would communicate and what means of communications he would be allowed to use.
Combs’ Charges
Combs, 55, who is being held at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center as he awaits his trial scheduled for May 5, has pleaded not guilty. He is charged with racketeering, sex trafficking, and transportation to engage in prostitution.
Witness Tampering Allegations
In a recent filing, prosecutors said Combs has continued to try to "evade law enforcement monitoring, corruptly influence witness testimony, and further attack the integrity of these proceedings."
Background on the Case
Scrutiny of Combs began last year when his former romantic partner Casandra Ventura, known as Cassie, filed a lawsuit alleging Combs raped and beat her in fits of "uncontrollable rage" and exerted a "tight hold over her life." The suit also alleged that he forced her to engage in sexual acts he called "freak offs" with other men while he watched.
Conclusion
The decision on whether Sean "Diddy" Combs will be released on bail will be delayed until next week. The judge is concerned about the potential risks and wants more information on how Combs would communicate and what means of communication he would be allowed to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the charges against Sean "Diddy" Combs?
A: Combs is charged with racketeering, sex trafficking, and transportation to engage in prostitution.
Q: Has Combs pleaded guilty to the charges?
A: No, Combs has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Q: What is the status of Combs’ bail hearing?
A: The decision on whether Combs will be released on bail has been delayed until next week.
Q: What is the concern of the judge in this case?
A: The judge is concerned about the potential risks of releasing Combs on bail, including the possibility of him tampering with witnesses or communicating with family or security paid for by him.
