Rapper To Remain In Custody After Judge Denied Him Bail For Sex Trafficking
During the bail hearing, Combs’ attorney, Marc Agnifilo, requested bail. However, Magistrate Judge Robyn Tarnofsky denied the request.
American rapper and music producer, Sean “Diddy” Combs will remain in jail following a judge’s decision to deny his bail request on Tuesday.
The superstar producer and businessman faces serious charges of sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy, based on a newly unsealed indictment.
Combs, 54, appeared in a Manhattan courtroom on Tuesday and pleaded not guilty to the charges. He was arrested by federal agents in New York the previous evening.
The indictment accuses Combs of sexually abusing women and coercing them into participating in drug-fuelled sex parties, employing threats and violence.
During the bail hearing, Combs’ attorney, Marc Agnifilo, requested bail. However, Magistrate Judge Robyn Tarnofsky denied the request.
She expressed concerns about a “power imbalance” in the case and potential witness tampering, alongside worries about Combs’ alleged propensity for anger, violence, and substance abuse.
The indictment outlines allegations that Combs led a criminal enterprise involved in “sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice.” It claims that Combs engaged in a “persistent and pervasive pattern” of abuse, including striking and kicking women.
Prosecutors revealed that victims were coerced into participating in “Freak Offs,” prolonged sexual performances involving narcotics, which were often videotaped. The indictment describes these sessions as being controlled by Combs, with threats used to ensure participation.
Despite his reputation as a significant figure in hip hop, Combs’ legal troubles have escalated. Last year, singer Cassie Ventura accused him of over a decade of abuse, including rape.
This lawsuit was settled, but additional claims have surfaced, including allegations of gang rape by Combs and associates.
In March, Combs’ luxury homes in Miami and Los Angeles were raided. Surveillance video showing Combs assaulting Ventura was cited in the bail hearing, reinforcing the prosecution’s case.
Born Sean John Combs on November 4, 1969, in Harlem, Combs rose to prominence in the music industry.
His career began as an intern at Uptown Records, leading to the founding of Bad Boy Records and significant contributions to East Coast hip hop.
