Sean “Diddy” Combs is fighting for his freedom as a federal judge decides whether he should be granted bail ahead of his trial in May 2025. The music mogul is facing charges of sex trafficking and racketeering, and during a recent hearing, his legal team made a bold move by drawing parallels to a recent legal case involving former President Donald Trump.
Combs’ attorneys argued that his communications, including social media posts and public statements, are protected by the First Amendment. They referenced a ruling from the D.C. Circuit Court in the case of United States v. Trump, which stated that restrictions on speech are only permissible in the face of a “significant and imminent threat to the administration of criminal justice.”
Prosecutors, on the other hand, accused Combs of using his communications to interfere with the case. They specifically pointed to a social media post celebrating his birthday, alleging that it was orchestrated from jail with the intention of influencing potential jurors. According to prosecutors, this post was designed to sway the jury pool.
Combs’ legal team argued that their client has the right to defend himself against the “false and outrageous claims” that have been circulating for months. They emphasized that he is entitled to a fair trial and has a constitutional right to speak out on his own behalf, citing the protection of the First Amendment.
In their latest attempt to secure his release, Combs’ lawyers have proposed a $50 million bail package. This package would include using his Miami mansion as collateral and imposing strict conditions for his release. The defense outlined the security measures, which involve Combs living in a secured Upper East Side apartment with no internet or phone access, except for monitored calls with his legal team.
Despite these proposed conditions, prosecutors are adamant that Combs should remain in custody. They cited his history of using unauthorized communication methods while incarcerated, including messaging apps and other inmates’ phone accounts. Lead prosecutor Christy Slavik argued in court last week that Combs’ actions were intended to subvert the legal process, alleging that he even told associates, “I just need one [juror]” during his jailhouse communications.
The case against Combs involves serious allegations of racketeering, sex trafficking, and transportation for the purpose of engaging in prostitution. This investigation has led to nearly 30 lawsuits against the music mogul, with attorney Tony Buzbee representing over 100 alleged victims.
In a separate controversy, Combs’ lawyers have accused federal investigators of seizing protected legal documents during a search of his jail cell. While Judge Subramanian agreed to destroy the copies of the confiscated notes, the originals are being kept in the court’s custody for further review.
