NEW YORK, NY – Hip hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs is planning to challenge a Manhattan judge’s decision to keep him detained without bail pending his trial on charges of sex trafficking and racketeering. Combs, 54, submitted a notice of appeal with the Southern District of New York on Monday. The appeal aims to secure his release from federal prison. However, it is unclear when the official appeal will be filed or when a hearing will take place.
Combs was arrested at a Manhattan hotel on September 16 and has since been held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. Despite being placed on suicide watch as a precaution, his legal team maintains that he is mentally sound and focused on his defense. Attorney Marc Agnifilo has expressed Combs’ determination and readiness to fight the allegations.
In addition to Agnifilo, Combs has enlisted the help of attorneys Anthony Ricco and Alexandra Shapiro to bolster his defense team. Ricco, known for representing a NYPD officer in a high-profile case, and Shapiro, currently working on another appeal, aim to strengthen Combs’ legal strategy.
Prosecutors have labeled Combs as a “serial abuser and obstructer,” referencing a 2016 incident in which he allegedly attempted to bribe hotel security to hide a violent assault on his then-girlfriend. This allegation played a role in Magistrate Judge Robyn Tarnofsky’s decision to revoke bail and detain Combs.
Accusations against Combs include orchestrating illicit activities under the guise of orgies known as “Freak Offs,” involving drugging and coercing women into prolonged sexual encounters. The operation allegedly involved members of Combs’ inner circle facilitating logistics, such as travel arrangements and accommodations, for these activities. Combs is also facing charges of racketeering conspiracy, fraud, and transportation for the purposes of prostitution, all of which he has pleaded not guilty to.
Combs’ next court appearance is slated for October 9 as he continues to contest the charges levied against him. The legal battle ahead remains intense as he strives to secure his freedom pending trial.