Sean “Diddy” Combs appeared in court again as his legal team pushed for a $50 million bond. His lawyers believe he should remain free while waiting for sentencing. They described a key violent incident as “provoked violence” and not grounds for continued detention.
A federal jury convicted Combs on two counts under the Mann Act. Prosecutors said he transported individuals across state lines to engage in prostitution. The jury cleared him of more serious charges that involved trafficking and conspiracy.
Each count under the Mann Act carries a potential sentence of 10 years. Federal law generally requires courts to keep defendants in custody after such convictions. Judges can only allow release if the case involves unusual circumstances and no public safety risk.
The judge denied Combs’ first bail request. Citing his past domestic abuse, the court viewed him as a possible threat. That ruling kept Combs in federal custody while his legal team prepared a new motion.
His attorneys pushed back by highlighting conflicting testimony. One key witness, known as Jane, admitted to initiating physical violence during an argument. She pushed Combs’ head into a counter before he struck back. The defense called this “provoked violence,” arguing that it did not reflect ongoing or planned abuse.
Lawyers also questioned how the prosecution applied the Mann Act. They said the law usually targets commercial sex operations for profit. In Combs’ case, they claimed all sexual activity happened between consenting adults. No one received money, and no coercion took place, according to the defense.
They argued that the government used the Mann Act in a way courts rarely do. Because of that, they said Combs’ situation qualifies as exceptional. His team also insisted he does not pose a risk of fleeing or harming others.
By repeating the phrase “provoked violence,” Combs’ attorneys hope to reframe how the court views the June altercation. They emphasized that the law should treat reactive violence differently from premeditated harm.
The judge has not yet responded to the updated motion. Combs remains in custody as the legal battle continues. His lawyers plan to press forward with their arguments and hope for a favorable bail ruling soon.
For more updates, visit DC Brief.