Diddy has officially added a major heavyweight to his defense team. Brian Steel, the seasoned criminal defense attorney best known for representing Young Thug in his high-profile RICO case, has officially joined Combs’ legal team as he faces serious federal charges in New York.
On Thursday, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian granted Steel permission to represent Combs in the Southern District of New York, approving his Pro Hac Vice admission. The move comes just days after Combs pleaded not guilty to an expanded five-count indictment that includes charges of racketeering and sex trafficking. He had previously pleaded not guilty to a separate three-count indictment filed in March.
It’s official:
Young Thug’s lawyer Brian Steel is now an attorney of record for Sean “Diddy” Combs in his federal criminal case.
Judge Subramanian granted Steel’s motion to appear today. pic.twitter.com/KjSmHmRZ1D
— Meghann Cuniff (@meghanncuniff) April 17, 2025
Federal prosecutors allege that Combs used his entertainment empire to sexually abuse women over a span of two decades. According to court filings, the allegations include orchestrating recorded sexual encounters known as “freak offs,” with male sex workers transported across state lines. One incident cited by prosecutors includes surveillance footage from 2016 showing Combs kicking and dragging a woman in a Los Angeles hotel. Another widely circulated video, aired by CNN, shows Combs assaulting his former girlfriend, Cassie Ventura. Combs has since apologized for the incident, which his lawyer described as part of a “toxic, loving 11-year relationship.”
Diddy’s legal team has repeatedly denied the allegations.
Steel’s appointment signals a more aggressive defense strategy as Combs prepares for trial. Known for his commanding courtroom presence, Steel has built a reputation over 30 years defending judges, FBI agents, athletes, and entertainers. His performance in the Young Thug case earned him a spot on Billboard’s Top Music Lawyers list.
Combs remains in custody in Brooklyn and faces jury selection starting May 5, with opening statements expected to begin May 12.
