Sean “Diddy” Combs’ legal team has filed an appeal requesting his release from jail before his trial, as the music mogul faces serious charges, including racketeering and sex trafficking. The appeal, submitted to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, argues that Combs’ continued detention violates the Bail Reform Act, citing his presumed innocence and the substantial bail package he offered.
Defense Argues Bail Conditions Would Ensure Compliance
Combs’ attorney, Alexandra Shapiro, contends that the court improperly denied a bail package that would have addressed any concerns over flight risk or community safety. “Mr. Combs took extraordinary steps to demonstrate his intent to face the charges, not flee,” Shapiro stated in the filing. She also emphasized that “under the Bail Reform Act, liberty is the norm, and detention prior to trial is the carefully limited exception.”
Combs, who voluntarily surrendered in New York last month, has been denied bail twice since his arrest on September 16. U.S. District Judge Andrew Carter previously cited concerns that Combs could tamper with witnesses, stating that no combination of conditions could mitigate this risk. Shapiro’s latest appeal aims to overturn this decision, stressing that “the proposed conditions will reasonably assure his appearance and the safety of the community.”
Facing Serious Allegations, Diddy Maintains Innocence
Combs, who has pleaded not guilty, faces charges of racketeering, sex trafficking by force, and transportation for prostitution. The indictment accuses him of coercing women into elaborate sexual performances involving drugs and male sex workers. Despite the severity of the charges, Combs’ legal team argues that he should be released on bail given his voluntary surrender and willingness to cooperate with restrictive pretrial conditions.
If convicted, the music mogul faces a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison, with a maximum of life behind bars. His next court date is set for Thursday, October 10, when the court will consider further motions in this closely watched case.