NEW YORK – Sean “Diddy” Combs will remain in federal custody after his lawyers on Wednesday failed in their appeal of the decision that denied him bail. In his ruling, Judge Andrew Carter said there were no conditions that reduced the risk of witness tampering or obstruction. The hip-hop artist and music mogul, who is facing charges of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution, will continue to be held in custody pending his trial. He pleaded not guilty Tuesday. Combs faces a sentence of up to life in prison if convicted. His next court appearance was scheduled for October 9.

Combs was being held by himself at the Special Housing Unit in the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn after Tuesday’s hearing, according to a law enforcement official. Prosecutors allege Combs, 54, created and ran a “criminal enterprise” through his business empire that engaged in crimes including sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery and obstruction of justice, according to the federal indictment. US Magistrate Judge Robyn Tarnofsky ruled Tuesday that Combs stay in custody while he faces charges.

Prosecutors opposed releasing Combs on any grounds, telling Tarnofsky he has attempted to tamper with witnesses and saying “the risk of danger is acute.” They pointed to an alleged cache of weapons found in the closet of Comb’s bedroom and his access to millions of dollars in bank accounts and cash that make him a flight risk. To try to sway a federal judge to release Combs while he awaits trial, his lawyers submitted a new bail package Wednesday that proposes to restrict all female visitors to his home who are not family members.

Combs’ defense team suggested the court restrict any females other than his family or mothers of his children from visiting his home and limit all visitors to his Miami properties “except for family, property caretakers, and friends who are not considered to be co-conspirators,” according to a new letter submitted to Carter, who is expected to preside over Combs’ case until the end. (CNN)…[+]