Sean “Diddy” Combs was denied bail on Wednesday after a jury convicted him of federal prostitution charges, though he was acquitted of more serious allegations involving sex trafficking and racketeering.Judge Arun Subramanian ruled that Combs would remain in custody while awaiting sentencing on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. Each count carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison.Defense attorney Marc Agnifilo urged the judge to release Combs before sentencing, stating, “He’s not going to flee. He’s been given his life back.” But Judge Subramanian refused to reconsider, pointing to the seriousness of the evidence presented during the trial.“For present purposes, the defendant is unable to meet his burden” to prove by clear and convincing evidence that he does not pose a threat to any person or the community, the judge said. He also highlighted that “at trial, the defense conceded the defendant’s violence in his personal relationships,” adding that the evidence showed Combs had a “yearslong pattern of violence.”Prosecutor Maurene Comey argued against bail, stating, “The only thing that’s exceptional about Combs is his wealth, his violence and his brazenness” and “his continued criminality and his willingness to violate the law.”Agnifilo pushed back with a pointed remark: “Listening to Ms. Comey makes me appreciate that we have juries.”Combs, 55, was found guilty of two prostitution-related offenses that carry a maximum sentence of 10 years each. However, the jury acquitted him of sex trafficking and racketeering charges that could have led to a life sentence. He has been in custody since his arrest in September.
