Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs has reportedly been taken off suicide watch as he awaits trial at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Centre. According to People, Combs was also visited by his family at the detention facility, where he has been kept in custody ahead of his court appearance in early October. People quoted a lawyer for the rapper as saying, “He is focused and very strong. He is concentrating on his defense and preparing for his trial.”
The update came just a week after it was reported that Combs was on suicide watch. While it remained uncertain if he was suicidal or how long he had been on watch, sources suggested that it was a preventive measure for him, considering he was in shock and disturbed. “Suicide watch is supervisory precautions taken for suicidal inmates that require frequent observation,” states the US Department of Justice National Institute of Corrections.
After being charged with sex trafficking, racketeering and prostitution, he was remanded to MDC on September 17. He pleaded not guilty and was denied bail twice. It is pertinent to note that Combs’ indictment stems from allegations of forcing victims to take part in elaborate sexual performances, described as “freak-offs.” He allegedly arranged the sessions personally at his White Parties, often recording them without consent.
Besides coercion and use of force, Combs has also been accused of using drugs such as cocaine, ketamine, and oxycodone.
Prior to his arrest, Combs was also hit with another lawsuit after Cassie Ventura sued him. This time, the rapper was accused of allegedly drugging and raping a woman in 2001, further claiming that she was sexually assaulted by Combs and his bodyguard. Last week, it was also reported that the rapper is staying in the same unit as Sam Bankman-Fried at the BMDC.
After Combs’ arrest, a statement from the legal team of his lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, read, “Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs is a music icon, self-made entrepreneur, loving family man and proven philanthropist who has spent the last 30 years building an empire, adoring his children and working to uplift the Black community. He is an imperfect person but he is not a criminal.
Agnifilo urged the public to reserve their judgement until they have all the facts. “These are the acts of an innocent man with nothing to hide, and he looks forward to clearing his name in court.”
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ next court appearance is scheduled for October 9. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment.
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