Brendan Paul, a former Syracuse University basketball player linked to Sean “Diddy” Combs, has had all charges against him dismissed following his completion of a pretrial diversion program for first-time offenders. Paul, who had been accused of acting as a drug courier for the embattled rap mogul, saw his case formally closed on Tuesday, as confirmed by his attorney.
The 25-year-old was arrested on March 25 at Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport when authorities discovered narcotics in his luggage. He faced felony charges for possession of suspected cocaine and marijuana-infused edibles.
“Mr. Paul’s case was formally dismissed today — in its entirety,” said attorney Brian Bieber in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. Initially, prosecutors focused only on the cocaine charge, but Paul entered a plea agreement typical for first-time drug offenses. The six-month diversion program required Paul to meet specific conditions, all of which he completed, according to Florida court records.
Paul’s involvement in Sean Combs’ circle was highlighted in a civil lawsuit filed by record producer Rodney “Lil’ Rod” Jones in a New York federal district court. In the lawsuit, Paul is described as Combs’ “mule,” accused of transporting and distributing various narcotics, including ecstasy, cocaine, GHB, ketamine, marijuana, mushrooms, and “tuci.” Jones claimed Paul concealed the drugs in carry-on luggage to bypass TSA screenings.
The lawsuit also alleges that Paul carried Combs’ firearm when they went out and arranged for sex workers, including negotiating their fees and ensuring payments were made on Combs’ behalf. The accusations in Jones’ lawsuit have sparked public curiosity and speculation about Combs’ private life and the so-called “freak-off” parties he allegedly hosted.
Paul’s arrest coincided with a broader investigation into Combs. On the same day in March, authorities conducted raids on Combs’ properties in Los Angeles and Miami. Later, on September 16, Combs himself was arrested and charged with racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. He is currently detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, awaiting his trial scheduled for May, after being denied bail.
While Paul’s charges have been resolved, the case continues to cast a shadow over Sean “Diddy” Combs and the allegations against him.