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- Third judge denies bail for Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs (newsbreak.com)
Sean “Diddy” Combs Denied Bail Pending Trial
A federal judge in Manhattan has denied Sean “Diddy” Combs’ request for home confinement before his May 5 trial on sex trafficking and racketeering charges. The judge cited concerns over Combs’ risk of violence and potential witness tampering.
Combs had proposed living in a Manhattan brownstone while awaiting trial, but the judge ruled that no conditions could guarantee the safety of the community and potential jurors. The judge cited Combs’ alleged history of abuse and coercion, as well as the notorious video of him beating his ex-girlfriend.
Prosecutors also presented evidence that Combs deleted texts to a grand jury witness and tried to influence witnesses and jurors from jail. The judge found this behavior troubling, especially given Combs’ knowledge of the government’s concerns about witness tampering.
Combs’ lawyers argued that he would be equally or more secure under home confinement than in jail. They proposed a GPS tracking ankle bracelet, limited contact with the outside world, and a designated security detail. However, the judge ruled that the risks were too great to justify releasing Combs.
Combs has pleaded not guilty, and his lawyers have maintained that the alleged sexual behavior was consensual. A spokesperson for the US Attorney’s Office did not comment on the bail denial.
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- Third judge denies bail for Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs (newsbreak.com)