A U.S. district judge reaffirmed on Wednesday, September 18, the decision to deny bail to hip-hop icon Sean “Diddy” Combs following allegations of witness tampering. Combs’ attorneys argued that he was prepared to post a $50 million bond, but Judge Robyn Tarnofsky rejected the request on September 17, stating she could not ensure his return to court or guarantee community safety, nor prevent potential witness tampering.
Authorities suspect that Combs attempted to dissuade individuals from coming forward against him. U.S. District Judge Andrew Carter Jr. upheld the bail denial in response to an appeal from Combs’ legal team.
Prosecutors claim that since being sued last November by his former girlfriend, who accused him of prolonged physical and sexual abuse, Combs has sought to contact her and other witnesses who are involved in the case, including a person he allegedly assaulted. Reports indicate that he contacted a potential witness 58 times over four days.
Prosecutors assert that Combs’ significant influence enables him to intimidate witnesses and victims, with several witnesses expressing fear of him during interviews.
Combs’ defense argues that he was unaware of any criminal investigation when reaching out to these witnesses and does not consider his actions as “obstruction of justice.” They maintain that he poses no flight risk and has “earned” the court’s confidence.
Additionally, Combs faces charges related to operating a “criminal enterprise” through his businesses, with accusations that include sex trafficking, kidnapping, arson, and forced labor. The indictment alleges that he “abused, threatened, and coerced” women and others to satisfy his sexual demands.
Combs has pleaded not guilty to all charges, which comprise sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation for prostitution.