Who is Anthony Ricco, the lawyer who quit Diddy’s case? He once represented Osama bin Laden, but told a judge that ‘under no circumstances’ could he continue to serve as counsel for Sean Combs

Mar 12 , 2025

Anthony Ricco (centre) has represented both Osama bin Laden (right) and Sean “Diddy” Combs – but recently quit the latter’s case. Photos: AFP, AP

Anthony Ricco was one of 6 lawyers representing the disgraced music mogul in his sex trafficking trial, which is coming up on May 5

Anthony Ricco, one of the six lawyers in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sex trafficking case, quit the music mogul’s defence team in late February, as reported by AP.

In this court sketch from last October, Sean “Diddy” Combs’ (left) is seen sitting beside his former lawyer Anthony Ricco (right) in court. Photo: Reuters

The defence lawyer – who has previously represented Osama bin Laden – filed the notice on February 20 in a Manhattan federal court, writing: “under no circumstances can I continue to effectively serve as counsel”. He did not offer any further details on the reason for his decision.

Combs’ trial is set to take place on May 5. “This motion for withdrawal of counsel, if granted, will not result in a delay of the present schedule for the commencement of jury selection and trial, or the present schedules for briefing of pretrial legal issues,” Ricco wrote, per the affidavit obtained by the magazine. “As a result, there will be no lapse in representation, as Sean Combs will continue to be represented by five other attorneys of record.”

Anthony Ricco speaks to members of media as he exits Manhattan federal court in October 2024, in New York. Photo: AP Photo

Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty to sex trafficking charges.

Here’s what we know about Anthony Ricco amid the news.

What is Anthony Ricco’s background?

Anthony Ricco was born and raised in Harlem. Photo: Nurturing Justice Inc/Facebook

Anthony Ricco was born and raised in Harlem, New York, just like Diddy, notes The Standard.