Manhattan federal court Judge Arun Subramanian has directed prosecutors to destroy records of notes confiscated from Sean Combs’ jail cell.

This order followed complaints from Combs’ defense team, who argued that federal agents overstepped legal bounds by photographing personal notes during a recent contraband sweep at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn.

The sweep, which began on October 28, saw a coordinated effort by multiple federal agencies to clamp down on contraband inside the troubled Brooklyn jail.

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This initiative by the federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) was prompted by a series of violent incidents, including two fatal stabbings over the summer, that highlighted ongoing security issues.

Authorities employed extensive measures, including contraband-sniffing dogs and the deployment of an FBI mobile command center outside the Sunset Park facility.

Defense lawyers were also subjected to security checks upon exiting the premises.

On November 1, BOP officials reported the seizure of numerous items, including electronic devices, drugs, drug paraphernalia, and makeshift weapons, in what they described as a comprehensive sweep. However, during a hearing in federal court, Combs’ legal team took issue with the handling of his case, asserting that federal agents violated his privacy by photographing personal notes.

The revelation that the notes had been acquired came to light on Friday, when federal prosecutors cited the materials in arguments against Combs’ latest bid for release.

Prosecutors claim the notes implicate Combs in witness tampering, alleging that he was attempting to “pay off” potential witnesses who may testify against him.

The judge’s order to destroy the records of the notes may impact the government’s case against Combs, potentially limiting evidence used to argue for his continued detention.

However, federal authorities remain committed to their stance, with multiple agencies underscoring the sweep’s role in restoring order at MDC Brooklyn amidst heightened scrutiny of prison conditions and security.