Sean “Diddy” Combs Bail Request Denied Again

Diddy will remain in jail after a judge denied his bail, citing that no conditions could ensure the safety of the community. In a ruling filed Wednesday, the judge pointed to significant risks of witness tampering and direct evidence of Diddy’s violent behavior, including the notorious 2016 video showing him assaulting Cassie, along with text messages between the two. In the texts, Cassie expressed concern over her injuries, telling Diddy he was “sick for thinking it’s OK to do what you’ve done.”

The judge also noted Diddy’s violations of prison rules, such as paying inmates to use their phone access codes to contact people not on his approved list. Last week, Diddy appeared in federal court, seeking release on a $50 million bond after being charged with racketeering, sex trafficking, and other serious crimes.

The judge emphasized the “compelling evidence” of Diddy’s violent tendencies as another reason for keeping him in custody. Diddy was indicted by a grand jury and arrested in September at the Park Hyatt Hotel in Manhattan, where he has been detained ever since.

On Friday, Diddy made a fourth attempt to secure bail, appearing in a New York courtroom unshackled alongside his attorneys. Despite offering his $50 million Miami Beach mansion as collateral, agreeing to house arrest with 24/7 security, and pledging no contact with alleged victims or witnesses, two judges had previously rejected his requests, citing concerns he could interfere with the ongoing federal investigation.

The judge noted that Diddy could renew his bail request if his incarceration hinders his trial preparation. His trial is set for May 5.