(NewsNation) — Sean “Diddy” Combs added fellow rapper Young Thug’s lawyer to his legal team only weeks ahead of his criminal sex-trafficking trial.
Brian Steel filed a motion for admission on April 15 to join Diddy’s criminal defense team. Steel is based in Atlanta, Georgia.
NewsNation asked a Steel Law Firm representative for comment on Thursday. They said they are unable to make a statement at this time due to “Court Order” and pointed to the public record.
When is Diddy’s trial?
Diddy’s trial is scheduled for May 5, although the fallen music mogul has requested that the hearings be delayed by two months, citing that the prosecution has been slow to give over possible evidence to review. Judge Arun Subramanian said he would address the request in a hearing this Friday.
Who is Brian Steel?
Steel represented Young Thug, whose real name is Jeffrey Lamar Williams, last year while the rapper faced gang, drug and gun charges.
Steel was held in contempt of court, which was later overturned, when he refused to tell a judge how he learned about a confidential conversation between the judge, witness, and prosecutors during Williams’ trial last summer.
Steel was arrested on camera and was ordered to spend 20 days in jail.
The attorney told the then-judge, “You are removing me against his will, my will, and you’re taking away his right to counsel.”
Steel appealed the case and won. A new judge then presided over Williams’ trial, which resulted in a plea deal for the rapper, releasing him from prison after 2 1/2 years.
What is Diddy accused of?
In a May 2024 press release, U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said, “As alleged in the Indictment, for years, Sean Combs used the business empire he controlled to sexually abuse and exploit women, as well as to commit other acts of violence and obstruction of justice. “
“Today, he is charged with racketeering and sex trafficking offenses. If you have been a victim of Combs’ alleged abuse – or if you know anything about his alleged crimes – we urge you to come forward. This investigation is far from over,” Williams continued
Combs has pleaded not guilty to multiple crimes including federal charges for sex-trafficking and racketeering. He is also facing numerous civil lawsuits claiming sexual abuse and assault. The 55-year-old has been held since September without bail.