Sean “Diddy” Combs’ legal troubles have taken another dramatic turn as one of his defense attorneys, Anthony Ricco, has abruptly withdrawn from the high-profile sex trafficking case against the music mogul.
In a filing submitted to the Manhattan federal court, Ricco made it clear that he could no longer represent Combs, stating, “Under no circumstances can I continue to effectively serve as counsel for Sean Combs.” However, he refrained from disclosing specific reasons, citing attorney-client privilege.
Despite this shake-up, the trial is still set to begin on May 5, 2025. Combs’ legal team remains intact with five other attorneys, led by Marc Agnifilo, and Ricco assured the court that his departure would not cause any delays.
A Legal Storm Intensifies
Combs, 55, has been behind bars since his September 2024 arrest, facing serious charges including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation for prostitution. Federal prosecutors claim he leveraged his wealth and power to lure victims into drug-fueled sexual encounters, allegedly using threats and violence to maintain control. Combs, however, has vehemently denied all allegations, pleading not guilty.
The legal firestorm ignited in November 2023, when singer Cassie Ventura—his former longtime partner—filed a bombshell lawsuit accusing him of rape and abuse. Although that lawsuit was settled within 24 hours, it unleashed a wave of additional allegations from multiple accusers, all of which Combs has rejected.
By March 2024, federal authorities escalated their investigation, executing high-profile raids on Combs’ residences in Los Angeles, New York, and Miami, seizing electronic devices and other potential evidence.
Fighting Back in Court
As he battles criminal charges, Combs has launched his own legal counterattack, filing a $100 million defamation lawsuit against NBCUniversal and production company Ample. The lawsuit targets their upcoming docuseries, Diddy: The Making of a Bad Boy, which he claims falsely paints him as a criminal mastermind—accusing him of serial murder and the rape of minors.
With his trial fast approaching, the abrupt departure of a key defense lawyer adds yet another layer of uncertainty to an already explosive legal battle. The question remains: Will Diddy’s empire crumble, or will he emerge unscathed?
