Sean "Diddy" Combs, currently incarcerated on federal charges including racketeering and sex trafficking, has sparked debate by drawing parallels between his legal situation and Donald Trump's.
In a recent court filing, Combs' attorneys argued that the First Amendment protections afforded to Trump in his election interference case should similarly apply to the disgraced musician.
The claim follows accusations that the rapper used social media and banned communication tools to influence public opinion and potential jurors.
Prosecutors allege further misconduct while in custody
Prosecutors assert that Diddy orchestrated a public relations effort using a video posted by his children on social media to mark his birthday.
The clip, featuring Diddy's voice for the first time since his arrest, allegedly violated prison rules and was facilitated through an app banned by the Bureau of Prisons.
Authorities also claim Combs made unauthorized calls and paid a witness to influence testimony, contacting her 128 times over four days.
The charges against Diddy go back more than a decade, alleging he led a criminal enterprise involving abuse, coercion, and violence. Prosecutors describe disturbing events dubbed "Freak Offs," where victims were reportedly exploited.
Dozens of civil lawsuits, some from individuals who were minors at the time, have been filed against the rapper, though he denies all allegations.
Despite three bail applications, Diddy remains detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. His lawyers have argued for house arrest, citing his destroyed reputation and the aggressive tactics of prosecutors.
Combs maintains that the charges are exaggerated and insists the allegations are fictionalized for dramatic effect.
Set for trial in May 2025, Diddy's future hangs in the balance as he continues to fight for his release and denies involvement in the alleged crimes.