Attorney Anthony Ricco, representing Diddy in his criminal case involving charges of sex trafficking and racketeering, has been granted permission by Judge Arun Subramanian to withdraw from the case.
“Under no circumstances can I continue to effectively serve as counsel for Sean Combs,” he wrote in his affidavit. “It is respectfully but regrettably requested that the court grant the relief requested.” He further suggested that providing more reasoning for the decision would violate attorney-client privilege. Ricco was one of six attorneys representing Diddy.
TMZ reports that Ricco’s decision to leave the case follows disagreements with lead attorney Marc Agnifilo regarding their defense strategy for Diddy.
Sources suggest that Ricco was frustrated by his inability to communicate directly with Diddy and concerns about the team’s preparedness for trial.
Diddy, who has pleaded not guilty and is set to stand trial on May 5th, continues to assert his innocence amidst ongoing legal battles.
Earlier this month, a lawsuit accusing the rapper and Jay-Z of rape was voluntarily dropped by one alleged victim. In response, Diddy’s legal team predicted further dismissals in the other cases.
“Just like this claim, the others will fall apart because there is no truth to them,” the statement said. “Sean Combs has never sexually assaulted or trafficked anyone—man or woman, adult or minor. No number of lawsuits, sensationalized allegations, or media theatrics will change that reality. We will continue to fight these baseless claims and hold those responsible. This is just the first of many that will not hold up in a court of law.”
