Why Did Diddy's Lawyer Quit: Anthony Ricco 'Blocked By Marc Agnifilo From Speaking With Rapper'

Sean 'Diddy' Combs' ongoing legal battle has taken another dramatic turn as one of his attorneys, Anthony Ricco, has withdrawn from the case, citing professional conflicts. Reports indicate that Ricco was allegedly blocked from speaking directly with Combs by lead defence lawyer Marc Agnifilo, sparking tensions within the legal team. This development comes as the hip-hop mogul remains incarcerated in Brooklyn, facing serious sex trafficking and racketeering charges.

Power Struggles Behind the Legal Team Shake-Up

According to People, Ricco's decision to step down stemmed from months of internal conflict within Combs' defence team. Sources claim Ricco grew frustrated when his efforts to discuss legal strategy with Combs were repeatedly thwarted by Agnifilo, leading him to conclude that he could no longer effectively represent his client.

A report from Variety further revealed that Ricco officially filed his motion to withdraw on 21 February, stating in court documents: 'Under no circumstances can I continue to effectively serve as counsel for Sean Combs.' While he refrained from disclosing specifics due to attorney-client privilege, he made it clear that internal disputes played a key role in his departure.

This exit has raised concerns over whether Combs' legal team will be fully prepared for the trial set to begin on 5 May 2025. Sources close to Ricco told The Mirror that he doubted the defence team's readiness, particularly given the complex nature of the charges Combs faces.

Diddy's Legal Troubles Continue

Combs, 54, is currently being held at Brooklyn's Metropolitan Detention Center, where he has been placed in special housing away from the general population. The rapper has pleaded not guilty to all charges, which include racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation for prostitution, according to Newsweek. His repeated attempts to secure bail have been denied three times, leaving him behind bars as his legal team scrambles to prepare for trial.

Adding to his legal woes, Newsweek reported that seven additional lawsuits have been filed against Combs, with claimants alleging they were drugged and sexually assaulted between 2000 and 2022. These cases are separate from his ongoing criminal trial, further complicating the rapper's already precarious legal position.

Marc Agnifilo's Tight Grip on the Defence

Marc Agnifilo, who remains Combs' lead defence attorney, is known for handling high-profile cases, including his previous work defending NXIVM cult leader Keith Raniere and Goldman Sachs banker Roger Ng. Despite Ricco's departure, The Mirror reported that Agnifilo and fellow defence lawyer Teny Geragos have assured the court that they remain confident in their legal strategy.

However, Ricco's sudden exit has fuelled speculation about deep-seated tensions within the defence team. One insider, speaking to People, claimed that Ricco was uncomfortable with the aggressive and expedited approach Agnifilo was taking, fearing it would jeopardise Combs' chances in court.

Who is Anthony Ricco?

Ricco, a seasoned criminal defence lawyer, is no stranger to controversial cases. He previously represented former Bad Boy Records rapper G. Dep during his 2012 murder trial, securing a 15-year-to-life sentence for his client. Additionally, Ricco has defended Osama Bin Laden's personal secretary Odeh El-Hage and other individuals tied to major criminal investigations.

Speaking to Newsweek, Ricco made it clear that his decision to leave had nothing to do with the strength of the case against Combs. Instead, he cited irreconcilable differences with his co-counsel, stating: 'I never met Sean Combs in my life until I visited him at MDC about a month ago. I am not a "rap lawyer"—I have worked on high-stakes cases long before this one.'

What Happens Next?

Despite Ricco's exit, Combs' defence remains in the hands of Agnifilo and Geragos, both of whom have indicated that Combs may testify in his own defence. Agnifilo previously told TMZ that Combs is eager to tell his side of the story, adding: 'I don't know that I could keep him off the stand. These are the actions of an innocent man with nothing to hide.'

Meanwhile, Combs' ongoing lawsuits and mounting legal fees suggest that his trial will be one of the most closely watched celebrity cases in recent history. With additional allegations continuing to emerge, his legal team will need to navigate an increasingly challenging defence while ensuring they remain united in strategy.

Whether Ricco's departure will impact the defence's effectiveness remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Combs' legal troubles are far from over.