Sean “Diddy” Combs is once again seeking release from jail ahead of his upcoming criminal trial, scheduled for May 2025. The hip-hop mogul’s legal team has submitted a fresh motion, proposing a new, more comprehensive bail package, after previous attempts to secure bail were denied by several judges.

Combs has been held at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn since his arraignment in mid-September 2023. His lawyers argue that his continued detention is interfering with his ability to adequately prepare for his defense, citing limited access to legal counsel and evidence necessary for trial preparation.

New Bail Proposal: $50 Million Bond, Home Detention, and More Restrictions

In the latest filing, Combs’ legal team has put forward a new set of conditions for his release, including a $50 million bond. This bond would be secured using the equity in Combs’ and his mother’s Florida properties, along with a plan for 24/7 monitoring by approved security personnel. Additionally, Combs would be prohibited from using the internet or a phone outside of legal meetings, and visits would be limited to an approved list of close family members.

This proposal also includes a commitment from Combs to stay under “full home detention” either at his $48 million mansion in Miami or another approved location in New York. His family visits would be monitored, and he would be subject to random drug tests as needed.

Why Combs’ Release Has Been Denied So Far

This is Combs’ fourth attempt to secure release ahead of his trial. His previous requests were rejected by several judges, including U.S. Magistrate Judge Robyn Tarnofsky, who initially ruled that Combs posed a flight risk, and Judge Andrew L. Carter, Jr., who also denied his request, citing concerns that no amount of bail could prevent Combs from tampering with witnesses.

In September 2023, Combs appealed to the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, but that motion was denied as well. Federal appeals judge William J. Nardini referred the case to a three-judge panel, and the decision on his release remains pending.

Lawyers Argue Jail Conditions Hinder Defense Preparation

Combs’ legal team claims that the conditions at the MDC are making it “impossible” for the rapper to prepare for his trial. They argue that he has been denied access to a compliant laptop, preventing him from reviewing the “critical discovery” material needed for his defense. Additionally, the defense team points out that frequent jail lockdowns and searches are preventing them from meeting with Combs and providing him with essential materials like pens and notebooks.

“Even if Mr. Combs obtains a laptop and has uninterrupted access to his attorneys, it will be impossible for him to review the vast amount of evidence against him under the current conditions,” his lawyers wrote in their latest filing.

Challenging the Prosecution’s Evidence Against Combs

Combs’ defense team is also pushing back against the prosecution’s evidence, claiming that it is not as incriminating as the government suggests. They argue that the 23.5 terabytes of evidence, including video footage, does not support the government’s claims of trafficking, racketeering, or other criminal activities.

One of the key pieces of evidence the prosecution has referenced is a 2016 hotel surveillance video, which allegedly shows Combs physically assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura. Combs’ attorneys, however, argue that this footage only demonstrates the abusive nature of their relationship, rather than supporting claims of sex trafficking or other illegal activities.

Prosecutors have referred to the video as evidence of Combs’ use of force in a so-called “freak off” and claim that it is part of a broader pattern of behavior. They have interviewed more than 50 alleged witnesses and victims and say they have recovered more than 130 electronic devices during their investigation.

Family Reunification Appeal

Combs’ attorneys also filed a request for him to be reunited with his family, noting that his seven children and his mother continue to offer him support. They highlight the emotional toll of his separation from his two-year-old daughter, who has not seen her father since his incarceration.

“His minor child, now 2 years old, has not been able to see her father since he was incarcerated and misses him dearly,” the defense team wrote in their filing.

Judge Denies Gag Order Request

In another setback for Combs’ defense, Judge Subramanian, who is overseeing his criminal case, denied their request for a gag order. The defense had sought to prevent potential witnesses and accusers from making public statements that could affect Combs’ right to a fair trial. However, Judge Subramanian found that the request was too broad and would unnecessarily restrict speech.

He noted that not all alleged victims would be involved in the trial, and such an order could silence individuals who may not even be part of the case. The judge also stressed that less restrictive alternatives should be explored before imposing any limits on speech.

In a previous ruling, the judge had also refused to issue a gag order against government agents, who Combs’ team had accused of leaking information to the media. Instead, Subramanian emphasized that both sides must adhere to existing laws prohibiting the release of grand jury materials and other non-public information that could impact a fair trial.