Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ legal team has requested a New York judge to compel prosecutors to reveal the identities of his accusers in an ongoing sex trafficking case. The lawyers argue that Combs needs to know who his alleged victims are in order to properly prepare for his defense.
A trial is set for May 5, and Combs, who has pleaded not guilty, remains in jail without bail since his September 16 arrest. His attorneys have sought home detention for him to better prepare for trial, but judges have ruled that he poses a danger to the community.
The request follows the filing of six new anonymous lawsuits against Combs, adding to the accusations that he exploited his fame to assault individuals under the pretense of career opportunities in the music industry.
Combs’ legal team has linked the rising number of accusations to his celebrity status and prior settlements, including a lawsuit from his former girlfriend Cassie, which was settled quickly but still haunts him.
His lawyers argue that the ongoing media frenzy surrounding the case, fueled by anonymous lawsuits and public allegations, threatens Combs’ right to a fair trial. They assert that the government should disclose which accusations are part of their case, so Combs can adequately defend himself.
The indictment accuses Combs of using violence, blackmail, and coercion to control his victims.
