One of Sean "Diddy" Combs's attorneys, Anthony Ricco, is stepping down as his lawyer after filing a motion on Thursday, February 20. Combs, 55, is facing charges of sex trafficking, transportation to engage in prostitution, and racketeering. He previously pleaded not guilty to the charges. Ricco did not provide a specific reason for him stepping down as Combs's attorney.
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"Although I have provided Sean Combs with the high level of legal representation expected by the court, under no circumstances can I continue to effectively serve as counsel for Sean Combs," wrote Ricco in an affidavit obtained by multiple outlets, including PEOPLE.
Ricco would go on and state that there is no risk of "violating any aspect of the attorney/client privilege." "The government takes no position on the motion seeking withdrawal of counsel for Sean Combs," he continued.
Combs's attorney, however, confirmed that there would be no delay in Combs's representation. Combs is currently being represented by five other attorneys.
"This motion for withdrawal of counsel, if granted, will not result in a delay of the present schedule for the commencement of jury selection and trial, or the present schedules for briefing of pretrial legal issues," Ricco concluded. "As a result, there will be no lapse in representation."
Freak-Offs
Sean "Diddy" Combs has been in federal custody since September 16, according to NBC News. According to the indictment papers obtained by PEOPLE, Combs is accused of using coercion to force women to engage in "elaborate and produced sex performances." He would entice his alleged victims through romantic pretensions. Then, he allegedly used "force, threats of force and coercion" to make them participate in the so-called "freak-offs."
The indictment details the use of drugs such as cocaine as tools Combs allegedly used to make women comply with his demands. He then allegedly recorded the "freak-offs." After that, some of the alleged victims would need IV treatment. This would help them recover from physical strain sustained during the alleged "freak-offs" as well as from drug use.
Combs's federal trial will begin on May 5, 2025. He faces life in prison if found guilty. According to NBC News, more than 30 civil lawsuits have been filed against Sean "Diddy" Combs. He is accused of sexual assault and misconduct.
