Jose Baez, the high-profile attorney known for representing Casey Anthony and Aaron Hernandez, believes Sean “Diddy” Combs will eventually recover from his recent conviction.
Speaking with TMZ’s Harvey Levin and Charles Latibeaudiere, Baez said he doesn’t think Diddy’s life is over despite the legal blow. “I think Diddy’s going to be fine,” he said. “A lot of what he does is in the background as a producer, so yes, there’s going to be somewhat of a hit; however, I do think he’ll be able to bounce back and work.”
Diddy was found guilty on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, but acquitted of racketeering and sex trafficking charges. Judge Arun Subramanian denied him bail, citing video footage of the mogul assaulting Cassie as a factor in the decision. Diddy now faces up to 20 years in prison.
Baez doesn’t believe Diddy’s finances will be devastated. “I don’t think he’s going to find himself in a situation where he goes bankrupt because of his inability to find work,” he said. “I do think he’ll be able to recover. Not to the extent or extreme of where he was before. But look, I think he’s made himself enough money to last himself for what many people would utilize in five lifetimes, or 10.”
Baez also took aim at the prosecution, calling it “flat-out racist,” and claimed the case wouldn’t have existed without the release of the Cassie assault footage.
When asked about Diddy’s future, Baez suggested a break from the spotlight could be a good thing. “A hiatus would benefit him,” he said. When TMZ pointed out that the “hiatus” would be served in prison, Baez replied, “That’s certainly a strong possibility.”
Still, even if Diddy doesn’t return to the industry, Baez believes he’s “made enough” to “retire and enjoy the rest of his life.”
