Diddy’s Lawyers Demand Court Appearance Without Shackles to Prevent Juror Bias

Sean “Diddy” Combs’ legal team has filed a motion requesting that the music mogul appear unshackled during court proceedings. Attorneys argue that shackling their client could unfairly influence jurors by creating an impression of guilt, jeopardizing his right to a fair trial.

Diddy, who faces charges of racketeering and sex trafficking, has pled not guilty to all allegations. His lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, emphasized in court filings that shackling is not only prejudicial but also hinders Diddy’s ability to effectively communicate with his defense team. “Juror bias is a real concern when restraints are visible,” Agnifilo stated.

The motion comes amidst allegations that Combs violated jail policies, with prosecutors accusing him of using other inmates’ phone lines to contact witnesses and orchestrate public relations efforts from detention. These claims have added fuel to an already high-profile case, attracting widespread media coverage.

Diddy’s legal team argues that allowing him to appear without restraints is essential to uphold the presumption of innocence. While the court has yet to rule on the motion, the trial is slated for May 2025.

This development underscores the challenges faced by high-profile defendants in navigating legal proceedings while under intense public scrutiny.