Music mogul Sean Diddy Combs will remain behind bars after a federal judge denied his bail request during a court hearing on Tuesday, September 17.
The artist, whose real name is Sean Combs, faces serious charges, including racketeering, sex trafficking, and transporting individuals to engage in prostitution after being arrested a day earlier.
Appearing before Judge Robyn Tarnofsky in New York, Combs pleaded not guilty to the charges. His legal team proposed a $50 million bond, offering his $48 million Miami mansion and his mother’s home as collateral. Additionally, Combs offered to wear a GPS monitor and limit his travel to South Florida and New York City.
Despite the proposal, prosecutors argued that Combs should remain in custody due to the severity of the charges, his potential for a life sentence, and the risk of witness intimidation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson voiced concerns over his possible flight risk, given his wealth and the seriousness of the alleged crimes.
Combs’ defense team, led by attorney Marc Agnifilo, argued that he had voluntarily returned to New York ahead of the charges, demonstrating his cooperation with the legal process. Agnifilo also highlighted that Combs is undergoing treatment for personal issues, including substance use and toxic relationships. He emphasized that many of the activities at the center of the case were consensual and not criminal.
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However, Judge Tarnofsky expressed significant concern over Combs’ alleged substance abuse and potential anger issues. She explained that despite considering alternatives, such as house arrest or a GPS monitor, the private nature of the alleged crimes, many of which took place behind closed doors, meant these measures were insufficient.
