Will Sean Combs be Released Today? Judge to Make Final Decision

Stay updated on all developments regarding the Sean Combs trial.

Acquittal and Release from Court

Sean Combs walked out of a lower Manhattan court on Wednesday after being acquitted of serious charges relating to sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy. However, the hip-hop mogul was found guilty on two lesser charges involving transportation to engage in prostitution, prompting his legal team to request his release pending sentencing.

Arguments for Release

During the proceedings, Combs’ attorney, Marc Agnifilo, highlighted the emotional presence of Combs’ family, who were visibly relieved. Agnifilo assured Judge Arun Subramanian that Combs posed no flight risk and noted that some of his offspring would back the $1 million bond.

“Mr. Combs has been given his life by this jury,” Agnifilo stated, emphasizing his client’s commitment to abide by court orders. “He will not run afoul of anything this court imposes,” he added.

Conditions for Release

Alongside the bond, Combs’ lawyers proposed several conditions for his release. They argued against the flight risk claim by pointing out that Combs hasn’t possessed a passport since his homes were searched last spring. Suggested travel restrictions included specific locales in Florida, California, New York, and New Jersey, primarily for legal matters and court-related appearances.

Additionally, they proposed that Combs continue drug testing as required by Pretrial Services.

Defending Innocence

Combs’ legal team reiterated that he came to New York willingly to contest the charges, signifying his commitment to proving his innocence. The lawyers noted that despite his arrest on September 17, 2024, Combs adhered to court protocols and exhibited exemplary conduct while detained.

Although convicted of two Mann Act counts, Combs now avoids the potential for life imprisonment on the most severe charges he faced. Nonetheless, the prostitution convictions could still lead to a sentence of up to 20 years—10 years for each count. Legal analysts suggest that, given Combs’ previously clean criminal record, the actual sentence may be less than the maximum.

Government Concerns

The court is set to reconvene at 5 p.m. to determine the validity of the motion for release. Concerns were voiced about Combs’ potential release from government witness Deonte Nash, who articulated fear regarding the safety of the public and individuals who testified against Combs.

Nash cited Combs’ documented history of violence and coercive behavior, labeling him a “serious and immediate threat.”

Prosecution Warnings

Prosecutors also expressed worries that Combs might disregard court orders upon release. They referenced trial evidence indicating that he allegedly continued engaging in various illegal activities—such as abuse and drug use—despite being under federal investigation.

“This is very, very serious conduct,” lead prosecutor Maurene Comey remarked, reminding the court of the domestic violence and substance abuse woven through the case. She expressed doubts that Combs would respect the law if released, fearing he might commit further crimes or attempt to escape.