Sean Combs’ lawyers claim the nine videos at the center of his federal racketeering and sex trafficking indictment show “fully consenting adults” engaging in sexual encounters known as “Freak Offs.” The attorneys argue that these videos confirm Combs’ “innocence” and must be turned over to his defense for independent analysis.
According to a letter filed with the court, the videos depict consensual sex among willing adults in a decades-long relationship. They claim that the prosecution’s case is both sexist and puritanical, as they show “clearly consensual sex among willing adults.”
Combs’ team argues that complete, unabridged electronic copies of the videos are necessary to build a strong defense. The lawyers claim that allowing them to review the footage will enable them to enhance the audio portions and metadata.
The videos were previously handed over to prosecutors by Combs’ ex-girlfriend Casandra “Cassie” Ventura. However, her team has only been able to review the footage in-person while monitored by law enforcement due to a protective order.
Combs’ defense attorney Marc Agnifilo explains that the current protection orders prevent his team from possessing certain evidence. He argues that allowing them to possess the video evidence will enable them to create trial exhibits, stills, and transcripts.
The case is set for trial in May, with Combs pleading not guilty. Prosecutors are expected to respond to Combs’ modification request in a follow-up filing.
Francisco Mundaca, a former state prosecutor, says that the judge is in a difficult position, especially with the jury trial just four months out. He believes that allowing Combs’ team to review the videos could be a reasonable middle ground and suggests that this would help them create a stronger defense.
Combs’ lawyers are focused on discrediting Ventura’s claims by producing alternative evidence. They argue that the video they plan to produce shows a different story, one in which no one was intoxicated or coerced.
Source: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/sean-diddy-combs-freak-off-cassie-videos-1235235343