In a significant development ahead of Sean "Diddy" Combs' upcoming sex trafficking trial, lead defense attorney Anthony Ricco has filed a motion to withdraw from the case. Ricco cited his inability to continue effective representation, referencing attorney-client privilege as the reason for his departure. This move comes just months before the trial is scheduled to commence on May 5, 2025.
Despite Ricco's exit, Combs' defense team still comprises five other attorneys, including Marc Agnifilo, who has been involved in discussions regarding Ricco's withdrawal. The court has indicated that this change in counsel will not affect the trial schedule.
Combs, currently detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn since his arrest in September 2024, faces multiple charges, including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation for purposes of prostitution. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. The allegations against him began surfacing in November 2023, notably with a lawsuit from singer Cassie Ventura, which was settled shortly after filing. Subsequent accusations have emerged, leading to extensive legal challenges for the music mogul.
In addition to his criminal case, Combs has initiated a defamation lawsuit against NBCUniversal, Peacock, and Ample Entertainment, alleging that a documentary titled "Diddy: The Making of a Bad Boy" contains defamatory statements. This lawsuit was filed on February 12, 2025, further entangling Combs in legal disputes as his trial date approaches.
The prosecution has accused Combs of employing delay tactics to "relitigate" aspects of the case, though his defense maintains that all legal maneuvers are within their rights to ensure a fair trial. As the trial date nears, the departure of a key attorney adds complexity to an already high-profile and contentious legal battle.
