Diddy Bolsters Protection with Younger Thug’s Lawyer Brian Metal Forward of Trial
April 15, 2025
New York, NY – Sean “Diddy” Combs has made a high-profile addition to his authorized protection crew, enlisting Brian Metal, the famend lawyer finest recognized for representing rapper Younger Thug within the record-breaking YSL RICO case. The transfer, confirmed by courtroom paperwork filed on Tuesday, comes simply weeks earlier than jury choice begins on Could 5 in Combs’ federal intercourse trafficking and racketeering trial, signaling a strategic push to strengthen his protection amid mounting allegations.
Metal, a Georgia-based lawyer, filed a movement to look as counsel for Combs within the Southern District of New York, as reported by authorized journalist Meghann Cuniff. His addition follows the abrupt withdrawal of lawyer Anthony Ricco in February, who cited an incapacity to proceed “below any circumstances” with out elaborating, leaving Combs with 5 different attorneys, together with lead counsel Marc Agnifilo and Teny Geragos. Sources point out that Combs had initially sought a Black feminine lawyer to diversify his crew, however Metal’s fame as a tenacious defender made him the popular selection.
Metal’s prominence stems from his protection of Younger Thug (Jeffery Williams) in Georgia’s longest-ever prison trial, which spanned over 22 months. Metal’s aggressive techniques, together with a dramatic contempt cost in June 2024 for refusing to reveal a supply, earned him widespread acclaim. After studying of a personal assembly between the decide, prosecutors, and a key witness, Metal demanded a mistrial, resulting in his arrest and a 20-day jail sentence, later overturned by the Georgia Supreme Courtroom for due course of violations. His actions contributed to the recusal of Choose Ural Glanville and bolstered his fame as a fierce advocate, with fellow lawyer Douglas Weinstein calling him “a legend in Georgia” for his integrity and courtroom demeanor.
Combs, 55, faces fees of racketeering conspiracy, intercourse trafficking, and transportation to interact in prostitution, following his September 2024 arrest. Prosecutors allege he operated a “prison enterprise” that used violence, threats, and manipulation to use ladies for sexual gratification. Combs has pleaded not responsible, together with his authorized crew arguing the costs replicate racial bias rooted within the Mann Act’s controversial historical past. He stays detained at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Middle after three judges denied bail, citing witness tampering issues. The trial, anticipated to attract intense media scrutiny, coincides with over 100 civil lawsuits accusing Combs of sexual misconduct spanning a long time.
Metal’s involvement is seen as a game-changer. “Brian’s humanity and tenacity are mandatory for a case this delicate,” Weinstein informed Rolling Stone, praising Metal’s capability to navigate advanced, high-stakes trials. Metal’s previous successes embody securing the early launch of former NBA participant Javaris Crittenton and representing ex-Glynn County DA Jackie Johnson within the Ahmaud Arbery case. His addition aligns with Combs’ technique to counter what his crew calls “a long time of filth” from prosecutors, who search to incorporate testimony from further accusers.
Nonetheless, the transfer has sparked debate. Critics query whether or not Metal’s aggressive model, honed in Georgia’s state courts, will translate to federal courtroom, the place guidelines are stricter. Supporters argue his principled stand in opposition to judicial overreach, as seen within the YSL case, might resonate with jurors. Posts on X replicate combined sentiments, with some hailing Metal as “the one one who can save Diddy,” whereas others speculate the case’s complexity might overwhelm even a lawyer of his caliber.
As Combs’ trial looms, Metal’s function underscores the excessive stakes of a case that might redefine the music mogul’s legacy. With Mark Geragos additionally anticipated to take a big function alongside Agnifilo and Teny Geragos, Combs’ protection crew is poised for a fierce battle. The result will hinge on their capability to dismantle the federal government’s narrative whereas navigating a media firestorm.
For updates on Combs’ case, go to www.legalaffairsandtrials.com or observe courtroom filings within the Southern District of New York.