Attorney Anthony Ricco, one of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ defence attorneys has filed to withdraw from the hip-hop mogul’s sex trafficking case, sparking a wave of speculation and discussions online.
Attorney Ricco, on Thursday, submitted a notice in Manhattan federal court, stating that he could no longer “effectively serve as counsel.” Ricco, who previously defended one of the most wanted terrorists, Osama Bin Laden, cited unspecified reasons for his decision.
“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, consistent with the ABA Standards for Criminal Justice,” Ricco wrote in the affidavit obtained by Fox News Digital.
While he did not elaborate on his reasons, he hinted at underlying issues that he could not disclose due to attorney-client privilege.
The court must approve Ricco’s request before he can officially step down from the case.
The news has sparked intense reactions on social media, with many speculating about potential developments in the case. Twitter erupted with various shocked reactions questioning what kind of evidence could have prompted Ricco’s withdrawal. “When a defense attorney asks to be removed from a criminal case, you know the accusations are true and very disturbing! Lawyers set a very low standard when it comes to morality and accountability, so his exit from the case is very telling,” a netizen commented.
Another suspected, “For an attorney to drop a client (especially one with a lot of money) and say “under no circumstances can I continue to represent this man”. Must be diabolical evidence out there on Diddy.”
The sudden withdrawal of attorney Ricco from the Diddy sex trafficking case has left many stunned, with some declaring that the hip-hop star is ‘finished’. One commented, “You know you’re finished when a lawyer that defended Osama Bin Laden is saying this.”
“Keep in mind this attorney defended none other than OSAMA BIN LADEN in US Court after the WTC bombing. And he can’t handle THIS case? Yikes,” said another.
“When your lawyer defended #OsamaBinLaden and quits your case, I would think you are in trouble man. #SeanDiddy” still another commented.
“This lawyer had no issue represent OSAMA BIN LADEN but draws the line at Diddy. Do you know how cooked you are!???” another asked.
Twitter users have also suggested that the timing of this exit comes just a day after Kash Patel took over as FBI chief. According to Patel’s past interviews and U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, the US government is likely to release the much talked abotu ‘Epstein files‘. Amidst the buzz, many suggested that the FBI may also release the so-called “Diddy Files,” which allegedly contain incriminating evidence.
“Weird. P. Diddy’s attorney stepped away from the case the day after Kask got confirmed. Crazy coincidence!” read a tweet.
Another commented, “U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has announced the imminent release of the Epstein and Diddy list. FBI Director Kash Patel who has stated he’s going to release Epstein’s Island List.”
The controversy surrounding the case continues to grow, with more legal battles and public scrutiny expected in the coming weeks.
Combs, 55, remains incarcerated without bail, awaiting trial on May 5 after pleading not guilty to the sex trafficking charges. Federal prosecutors allege that he used his wealth and influence to coerce victims into drug-fueled sexual performances and employed blackmail and intimidation tactics.
