Prosecutors have accused Sean “Diddy” Combs of violating prison rules by attempting to influence potential witnesses ahead of his upcoming sex trafficking trial.
The music mogul, currently incarcerated in Manhattan, allegedly used other inmates’ phone accounts and three-way calls to reach individuals who are not on his approved contact list. Prosecutors claim that Mr. Combs instructed his family to contact witnesses on his behalf, and they cited recorded phone conversations as evidence.
Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty to all charges and maintains his innocence. He has been denied bail due to concerns about witness tampering, with prosecutors arguing that he poses a serious risk of obstructing justice.
Despite being in custody, Combs’ legal team recently sought a $50 million bail package, proposing house arrest with continuous surveillance. They argue that the conditions at the jail, including frequent lockdowns and limited access to necessary tools for trial preparation, are hindering his ability to adequately prepare for the case.
Prosecutors have also accused Combs of orchestrating social media posts to influence potential jury members. Among the evidence cited were posts allegedly drafted in collaboration with a witness, known only as “witness two,” as well as a video posted by his children during a prison phone call. The prosecutors argue that these efforts were part of a “relentless” scheme to influence the case.
They further allege that Combs used the phone accounts of at least eight other inmates to make illegal calls and directed others to arrange payments for this access. Prosecutors claim the star has a long history of manipulating others to do his bidding, including witnesses who could provide damaging testimony against him.
The prosecution is urging the judge to deny bail, asserting that no conditions could prevent Combs from interfering with the trial.