Judge Rejects Order to Speak But Warns Against Government Leaks

In a significant development in the federal racketeering and sex trafficking case against Sean “Diddy” Combs, a federal judge in Manhattan has denied the rapper’s request for a gag order against government agencies. The decision comes amid allegations from Combs’ legal team that federal agents could jeopardize his right to a fair trial by leaking classified information to the media.

Judge Arun Subramanian issued an order late Friday emphasizing that both the prosecution and defense must comply with existing laws prohibiting the disclosure of grand jury hearings and nonpublic information. “These statements are clearly inappropriate if made by an agent involved in the investigation or prosecution of this case,” Subramanian wrote, referring to the alleged leaks.

“To be clear, this order is not based on a finding of any impropriety to date, as the Court has not made any findings at this point regarding the defendant’s allegations that information regarding the case was leaked,” he added. . “The purpose of this order is to ensure that nothing happens that would hinder a fair trial from now on.”

The judge’s order requires the government to notify all agencies involved in the case of their obligations under Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 6(e) and district court rules. “The court will take appropriate action in case of any violation of the rules,” Subramanian warned.

Earlier this month, Combs’ attorneys filed a motion seeking an injunction preventing federal employees from disclosing evidence to the media. They argued that such leaks “undermine Mr. Combs’ right to a fair trial.” The defense and prosecution attempted to agree on the language of a joint verdict, but ultimately submitted individual motions, neither of which the judge accepted.

After a while, the issue became urgent New York Post The article quoted a federal law enforcement source involved in the investigation who allegedly made derogatory comments about Combs’ so-called “Freak Off” parties. Combs’ legal team referenced that article in a letter to the judge, expressing concerns about its potential impact on the public and the jury pool.

“These statements, if made by an agent involved in the investigation or prosecution of this case, are clearly inappropriate,” Judge Subramanian reiterated in his order.

Combs, 54, was arrested Sept. 16 at a Manhattan hotel and charged with sex trafficking, racketeering and transportation for the purpose of prostitution. Prosecutors allege he used his wealth and influence in the entertainment industry to orchestrate an elaborate scheme to “satisfy his sexual desires” through a “repetitive and widely known” pattern of harassment.

The hip-hop mogul has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is currently in custody at the Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center. Attempts to obtain bail, including a $50 million bail offer, were rejected. His appeal to overturn the September 18 decision to keep him in prison is still pending.

Combs’ lawyers also requested an evidentiary hearing to investigate allegations of government misconduct related to the leak of classified information, including a 2016 surveillance video. Footage released by CNN in May shows Combs kicking, hitting and dragging his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura near a hotel elevator. Combs apologized for his “inexcusable” behavior in a video statement, and his lawyers attributed the incident to a toxic relationship rather than criminal conduct.

The defense argues that the government has “strategically leaked classified grand jury materials and information” since March to harm potential jurors against Combs. “This increased public hostility towards Mr. Combs ahead of the hearing,” they wrote in a letter sent earlier this month.

When reached for comment, Combs’ attorney declined to comment. A spokesman for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York also declined to comment.

Judge Subramanian emphasized that his order was aimed at preserving the integrity of the judicial process. “The purpose of this order is to ensure that nothing happens in the future that would hinder a fair trial,” he wrote.

The court’s approach to the alleged leaks and media reports will be closely monitored as the case progresses. The trial is scheduled to begin May 5, and both sides are expected to engage in fierce legal battles over the admissibility of evidence and the conduct of law enforcement.

Combs has consistently denied any wrongdoing, maintaining his innocence against multiple civil lawsuits and federal charges filed against him last year. The outcome of the upcoming trial could have significant consequences for his career and legacy in the entertainment industry.

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