Sean “Diddy” Combs has been denied bail after a federal judge ruled that he poses a flight risk following his arrest on serious charges including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation for the purpose of prostitution. The arrest took place in a midtown Manhattan hotel on September 16.
During the court hearing, Judge Robyn Tarnofsky expressed concern over Combs’ potential to flee, leading to the decision to deny bail. Combs’ attorney, Marc Agnifilo, announced plans to appeal this ruling.
The indictment, which spans 14 pages, accuses Combs of exploiting his influential position in the music industry, specifically through his label, Bad Boy Entertainment. It alleges that he built a network that facilitated his alleged abusive behavior toward women and partnered with commercial sex workers for personal gratification.
Furthermore, the indictment claims that Combs employed his business resources to support his alleged violent actions, implicating several associates and staff members who either aided or participated in the misconduct.
Combs’ arrest coincides with multiple civil lawsuits linked to allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse dating back to November. One of the lawsuits was initiated by his ex-girlfriend, singer Cassandra Ventura, who detailed a history of abuse and exploitation, including instances where Combs allegedly coerced her to engage with male prostitutes for his viewing pleasure. This lawsuit, which was settled out of court, sparked a cascade of similar claims from other individuals spanning several decades.
Among the new allegations, a December 2023 lawsuit accused Combs, along with a former president of Bad Boy Records and an unnamed individual, of gang raping a 17-year-old girl in a recording studio.
In a separate civil action earlier this year, record producer Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones alleged that Combs forced him into illicit activities and named several others associated with Combs as co-defendants.
Additionally, singer Dawn Richard has come forth with serious allegations in her own civil lawsuit, describing years of abuse while working as a member of two of Combs’ groups. She claimed to have witnessed acts of violence and coercion directed at other women associated with Combs.
Federal investigators previously raided Combs’ residences in Los Angeles and Miami, seizing firearms, electronics believed to contain incriminating evidence, and items linked to the alleged offenses.
At the time of the arrest, Agnifilo expressed disappointment regarding what he described as an unjust prosecution, asserting Combs’ innocence and stating that he plans to plead not guilty.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams disclosed in a press conference that the investigation revealed Combs allegedly attempted to contact witnesses and victims to influence or silence them prior to his arrest. The prosecution believes his wealth and connections further classify him as a flight risk, warranting the request for no bail.
If found guilty of all charges, Combs could face a minimum of 15 years in prison, potentially up to life.