AceShowbiz - Damian Williams, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, has announced his resignation effective December 13. Williams has overseen several high-profile cases, including the convictions of Senator Robert Menendez and Sam Bankman-Fried, the ongoing prosecutions of Mayor Eric Adams and Sean "P. Diddy" Combs, and the recent charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

Ed Kim, Williams' deputy, will take over as acting U.S. Attorney. Williams stated that he is leaving at a time when the office is functioning at a high level. President-elect Donald Trump has indicated his intention to nominate former SEC chair Jay Clayton for the position.

In the ongoing case against Combs, prosecutors allege that he has engaged in witness tampering while in detention, including communicating with potential witnesses and orchestrating a social media campaign to influence the jury pool. They cite evidence of his use of unauthorized communication channels, threats and violence against his personal staff, as well as patterns of abuse and coercion against women over many years.

Prosecutors argue that Combs' past behavior demonstrates a risk of obstruction and violence, making his release on bail inappropriate. They also claim that the admissible portion of the 2016 video showing Combs assaulting ex-girlfriend Cassie (Casandra Ventura) further supports their position.

Combs' defense team maintains that his actions are protected by the First Amendment and that the negative publicity surrounding the case has prejudiced his ability to receive a fair trial. They argue that his proposed $50 million bail package, including 24/7 surveillance, is sufficient to ensure his appearance and prevent witness intimidation.

U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian is expected to make a bail decision this week. Combs' trial is currently scheduled for May 2025.