Sean “Diddy” Combs is renewing his bid for release from jail as he awaits his criminal trial, scheduled for May 2025. The hip-hop mogul’s legal team has filed a new motion seeking bail, proposing a revised and more detailed bail package in an effort to secure his release from the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn. This marks Combs’ fourth attempt to secure bail, following earlier denials from multiple judges.
In the new filing, Combs’ lawyers argue that the conditions of his detention have hindered his ability to prepare for his trial effectively, citing limited access to legal counsel and the necessary evidence.
$50 Million Bail Proposal with Home Detention and Strict Monitoring
The latest motion includes an offer for a $50 million bond, secured by the equity in Combs’ Florida homes. The proposal also includes strict conditions such as home detention, 24/7 monitoring by approved security personnel, and no internet or phone access for Combs outside of meetings with his lawyers. The legal team is requesting that Combs be allowed to remain at either his Miami mansion or a pre-approved location in New York while under house arrest.
In addition, the motion suggests that Combs would only be permitted visits from select family members, with all visits monitored by his assigned security. The proposal also states that Combs would be subject to drug testing, as needed.
Combs’ legal team asserts that these conditions would ensure he remains fully compliant and does not pose a flight risk, countering the government’s claims that his release would be dangerous.
Previous Denials and Ongoing Appeals
Combs has previously attempted to be released on bail after his arrest in September 2023. His earlier requests were rejected by several judges, including U.S. Magistrate Judge Robyn Tarnofsky and Judge Andrew L. Carter, Jr., who cited concerns about potential witness tampering. In September, Combs filed an appeal with the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, but that motion was also denied. Federal appeals judge William J. Nardini referred the motion to a three-judge panel, and the decision on whether Combs can be released pending trial is still unresolved.
Defense Team Claims Jail Conditions Hinder Trial Preparation
Combs’ lawyers argue that the conditions at MDC make it nearly impossible for the rapper to prepare adequately for his defense. They point to Combs’ inability to access a functioning laptop that would allow him to review critical discovery materials, a situation that has persisted despite the provision of a laptop by his legal team a month ago. They also note that frequent lockdowns and searches at the detention center prevent them from meeting with Combs regularly or providing him with necessary materials such as pens and notebooks.
“Even if Mr. Combs had uninterrupted access to his legal team and a laptop, reviewing the vast amount of evidence under current conditions is simply not feasible,” his attorneys wrote in their filing.
Challenge to Government’s Evidence
Combs’ legal team is also challenging the evidence presented by the prosecution, arguing that it is not as incriminating as the government suggests. The prosecution has presented 23.5 terabytes of discovery material, including video footage that allegedly shows Combs abusing his ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura. However, Combs’ lawyers claim that the video evidence does not support the charges of sex trafficking or racketeering, but rather reflects a toxic and abusive personal relationship.
The prosecution has also referred to the video as part of a broader pattern of behavior linked to the alleged “freak offs,” or coercive sexual performances, that form part of the charges against Combs. However, Combs’ attorneys contend that the footage is not conclusive evidence of trafficking or criminal activity, but instead portrays an unhealthy, long-term relationship.
Prosecutors claim they have interviewed 50 witnesses and victims and have gathered significant amounts of evidence, including more than 130 electronic devices, in support of the charges against Combs.
Family Impact: Request for Reunification
In addition to the legal arguments, Combs’ defense team has filed a plea for him to be reunited with his family. They emphasize the emotional toll of his incarceration on his seven children and his elderly mother, who continue to support him. His lawyers also highlight the impact on his two-year-old daughter, who has not been able to see her father since his arrest.
“His minor child, now 2 years old, has not seen her father since his incarceration and misses him dearly,” the defense team noted in their filing.
Judge Denies Gag Order Request
In a separate development, Judge Subramanian, who is overseeing Combs’ criminal case, denied the defense’s request for a gag order. The defense had argued that the public statements made by potential witnesses and accusers were interfering with Combs’ right to a fair trial. However, the judge ruled that the request was too broad and would unduly restrict free speech.
“The requested order is incredibly broad and would treat potential witnesses and their attorneys in the same way, which would affect ongoing cases,” Judge Subramanian wrote. “Less restrictive alternatives must be considered before imposing a speech restriction.”
The judge had previously rejected the defense’s request for a gag order on government agents, who Combs’ team accused of leaking information to the press. Instead, the judge emphasized that both sides must adhere to laws prohibiting the release of grand jury proceedings and other sensitive information that could impact the fairness of the trial.