JENNIFER LOPEZ is still dating PUFF DADDY - because she's too scared to ditch him.

According to American tabloid THE STAR the sexy singer has been keen to finish with the music mogul for months - but is scared of his explosive temper.

Puff is currently on trial in New York for bribery and gun possession charges. A pal says, "Jennifer has pleaded with Puffy to let her go but he told her, 'No can do, baby. Stay right here on my arm, make nice for the cameras and keep telling the world you're standing by your man.' "Jennifer is flat out terrified to come out and say that she and Puffy are no longer a couple.

He told her that dumping him would trash his image at his trial and she'd better think really hard before letting him down like that." And if the rap star's anger isn't enough to keep Lopez from bolting, his menacing bodyguards are - claim friends. She has told pals they are prepared to do anything for Puffy - including "hurt anyone around him not showing 100-per-cent support during the trial." (MB/TS/CPT)

Source: WENN