One of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ defense attorneys has withdrawn from his criminal sex-trafficking case, according to court filings cited by the New York Post. Attorney Anthony Ricco filed a motion on Thursday to step down as one of six lawyers representing the Bad Boy Records founder.
His request is awaiting judicial approval, as a judge must decide whether there are sufficient grounds for his withdrawal.
“Under no circumstances can I continue to effectively serve as counsel for Sean Combs,” Ricco stated in his affidavit filed in Manhattan federal court, as per the New York Post. While he formally requested to withdraw from the case, he did not specify the reasons behind his decision.
Ricco mentioned that his choice followed discussions with Combs’ lead attorney, Marc Agnifilo. He also noted that his affidavit was brief due to concerns about attorney-client privilege but assured the court that “there are sufficient reasons” for his request.
The attorney further stated that his departure would not delay the trial, as Combs still has five lawyers representing him.
The trial remains set for May 5.
Combs, 54, has pleaded not guilty to charges that he coerced women into drug-induced sex acts. He has been held without bail since his arrest in September. If convicted of the most serious charge, he faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and could receive a life sentence.
Beyond the criminal case, Combs is also facing over 40 lawsuits from men and women accusing him of drugging, sexually assaulting, or raping them.