Diddy’s Lawyer Protests Secrecy as Famous Rapper’s Name Is Shielded in Sex Trafficking Trial

June 13, 2025 — The courtroom surrounding Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking and racketeering trial has been fraught with tension—and this week, attorney Marc Agnifilo accused the court of veering into overreach by sealing critical proceedings and withholding details from both the public and his client .

Defense Voices Concerns

Agnifilo was notably vocal when Combs was barred from an hour-long hearing concerning whether another unnamed, “famous rapper” should be publicly identified. He challenged Judge Arun Subramanian, stating the exclusion was “a practical side of the constitutional right to a public trial,” and argued that too many proceedings—exhibits, sidebars, even jury letters—are being sealed from view.

Famous Rapper’s Name Mysteriously Omitted

During testimony, a woman referred to as “Jane” described a 2023 Las Vegas trip involving Combs and “a famous rapper.” Although the woman recounts the rapper expressing attraction and participating in a hotel-room gathering, his identity remains undisclosed due to closed-door rulings.

Constitutional Concerns Raised

Agnifilo emphasized that openness allows additional individuals with knowledge to come forward. Judge Subramanian responded by proposing Gottmut clearing the courtroom to allow Combs to address the secrecy—a proposal the defense declined .

Broader Implications & Next Steps

The defense has consented to pseudonymous testimony but not to the broader concealment of trial evidence. They argue that restricting visibility—especially on nuanced matters like jury composition, where the prosecution has sought the removal of a Black juror—undermines trial fairness .

While federal prosecutors contend the secrecy measures protect the witness and uphold dignity, defense parts fear the restrictions may erode foundational trial rights. As the case proceeds, this judicial balancing act between transparency and privacy will remain a central issue.