In a sharp rebuttal, U.S. prosecutors have dismissed Sean “Diddy” Combs’ assertion that law enforcement leaked sensitive information to undermine his defense in ongoing criminal sex trafficking allegations. In a filing submitted to a federal court in Manhattan, the government argued that Combs is merely “grasping at straws” with his claims of victimization, specifically referencing a 2016 hotel surveillance video that shows him assaulting former partner Cassie Ventura.
Prosecutors emphasized that Combs failed to demonstrate any actual leaks from the grand jury proceedings and maintained that he is well aware the contentious video was obtained through other means. His request for the names of his accusers was labeled a “thinly veiled” tactic aimed at commandeering the government’s case, as he seeks to mount a public defense against numerous civil lawsuits alleging sexual misconduct.
“This improper request should be denied in its entirety, particularly here, where there are serious and ongoing concerns regarding victim and witness safety, tampering, and intimidation,” the prosecutors asserted.
Facing multiple serious charges—including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and facilitating prostitution—Combs has pleaded not guilty and denied any wrongdoing in the civil suits. As the criminal trial approaches, set for May 5, 2025, prosecutors have stated that he will receive substantial evidence, including a witness list.
In a related development, Combs’ legal team has contended that he should not have to navigate a “guessing game” against what they describe as “baseless” accusations from anonymous plaintiffs seeking significant financial compensation.
Additionally, on the same day, U.S. District Judge Mary Kay Vyskocil ruled that a woman suing Combs over an alleged rape in 2004 could not remain anonymous. This decision emphasized Combs’ right to investigate the woman’s credibility and the public’s interest in transparency during court proceedings.
As the legal drama unfolds, Combs continues to fight not only against the criminal charges but also his prolonged detention at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center, where he has faced severe conditions, including reports of violence among inmates. With his 55th birthday approaching, the stakes in this high-profile case remain extraordinarily high.
