Combs stands accused of transporting prostitutes across state lines for extended sexual activities, referred to as “freak offs,” as per the indictment. In their defense, attorneys Alexandra Shapiro and Marc Agnifilo assert that no one, especially no white individual, has ever faced prosecution under the White-Slave Traffic Act for hiring escorts from another state. They argue that Mr. Combs is being unfairly singled out due to his status as a powerful black man, facing charges for behavior that is often overlooked. The defense team contends that the case should be dismissed as it is a clear instance of selective prosecution.
The defense filing highlights the case of former New York Governor Eliot Spitzer, who was connected to a prostitution scandal in 2008 but was not charged under the same Act. Drawing parallels, the attorneys claim that Combs engaged with the escort service Cowboys 4 Angels, featured on the television show “Gigolos,” to involve third parties in his intimate encounters, a practice they suggest is common among individuals of Combs’ stature.
According to the defense, many couples, including high-profile and affluent ones, incorporate third parties into their sexual relationships, sometimes providing compensation. They argue that neither the company Cowboys 4 Angels nor its escorts have been targeted by federal prosecutors before. The defense filing alludes to Cowboys 4 Angels without explicitly naming it, making reference to the Showtime series and an episode of Nightline showcasing the escort service.
A representative for the U.S. Attorney’s office for the Southern District of New York has declined to comment on the matter. However, federal prosecutors are expected to address the accusations of racial bias and selective prosecution in an upcoming court submission.
