Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Lawyers Accuse U.S. Government of Leaking Assault Video Amid Sex Trafficking Charges
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ legal team has accused the U.S. government of leaking a video showing the artist physically assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Casandra Ventura, also known as Cassie. In a memo filed on Wednesday, Combs’ lawyers claim that a series of unlawful leaks have severely damaged his reputation and prejudiced the public against him ahead of his upcoming trial.
Legal Allegations Against Government
Combs’ defense alleges that the release of the video, which aired on CNN in May, is part of a coordinated effort to undermine his defense and influence the jury pool. The video, filmed at the InterContinental Hotel in Los Angeles, depicts Combs grabbing Ventura, throwing her to the ground, and physically assaulting her. Combs later admitted responsibility for the footage, expressing remorse for his actions and acknowledging his role in the incident.
The video has become central to Combs’ ongoing legal battles, as he faces numerous lawsuits and allegations of sexual misconduct dating back to the 1990s. Currently, Combs is detained in Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center without bail, following his arrest in New York on charges of sex trafficking and racketeering.
Federal Denial of Leaks
Federal prosecutors have denied accusations that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) leaked the video. In a footnote within the legal memo, prosecutors stated that DHS did not have possession of the footage before it was aired by CNN. Despite this, Combs’ legal team maintains that it is “entirely reasonable” to believe the government was involved in the leak, asserting that it was intended to harm Combs’ ability to receive a fair trial.
Claims of Prejudicial Actions
Combs’ attorneys argue that the leak has significantly impacted his defense. They claim, “The videotape was leaked to CNN for one reason alone: to mortally wound Sean Combs’ reputation and hinder his ability to successfully defend himself against these allegations.” The legal team further argues that the footage was used in an improper and prejudicial manner, without the necessary context it would have received if presented as evidence during trial.
Additionally, the memo criticizes federal raids on Combs’ properties in Miami and Los Angeles, calling them “public spectacles of brutality” rather than proper searches for evidence.
Bail Request Denied
Combs has submitted three bail applications, the most recent offering a $50 million bond and home detention. His legal team contests allegations that he poses a risk of witness tampering, calling the government’s claims speculative. However, all bail requests have been denied, with authorities citing Combs as a flight risk.
Upcoming Trial Date
Combs’ defense team has requested a spring 2025 trial date as he faces multiple serious charges. He remains in custody while the legal process continues, with both sides preparing for what is expected to be a high-profile and highly contested trial.