Diddy on 'suicide watch' after bail denial in trafficking trial
Music mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs has reportedly been placed on "suicide watch" following his bail denial in a sex trafficking and racketeering case. The 54-year-old was arrested on Monday and is currently being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York. Sources told People that the suicide watch decision was taken as "preventative measures as Combs is in shock and his mental state is unclear."
Combs's lawyer vowed to fight for his release
Combs's representatives and the City of New York Department of Corrections have not yet commented on the situation. However, his attorney, Marc Agnifilo, stated outside the courthouse on Tuesday that he will "fight like hell" to secure Combs's release on bail. "Mr. Combs is a fighter...he's not afraid of the charges. He's been looking forward to this day; he's been looking forward to clearing his name. He didn't do these things." Agnifilo also maintained that his client is innocent.
Combs charged with trafficking, racketeering, transportation to engage in prostitution
Combs was charged in Lower Manhattan's federal court on Tuesday with sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation to engage in prostitution. Prosecutors alleged that he established a criminal enterprise involved in sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice. A 14-page indictment also disclosed that drugs, over 1,000 bottles of lubricant, and three AR-15s were found during raids on his Miami and Los Angeles residences in March.
Combs's previous legal troubles and comparisons to high-profile cases
Combs has faced a series of legal issues over the past year, including a lawsuit for rape and abuse by his ex-girlfriend Casandra 'Cassie' Ventura in November 2023. Although they settled out of court within 24 hours, Combs was subsequently hit with more sexual assault lawsuits from other alleged victims. Prosecutors are comparing his crimes to those of the late Jeffrey Epstein, convicted sex cult leader Keith Raniere, and fellow musician R Kelly.
