On Sept. 17, Sean “Diddy” Combs, a renowned figure in the hip-hop industry, faced serious charges in New York City. Prosecutors accused him of sex trafficking, transportation to engage in prostitution, and racketeering.
Combs, 54, pleaded not guilty to these charges in Manhattan federal court. If convicted, he could face a sentence of 15 years to life imprisonment. The court denied him bail, leading to his continued detention before trial.
Indictment Details Long-Running Scheme of Sex Crimes
The 14-page federal indictment against Combs reveals disturbing allegations. Prosecutors claim that Combs used his business empire, including Bad Boy Entertainment, to transport women and male sex workers across state lines.
These individuals allegedly participated in recorded sexual performances known as “Freak Offs,” during which Combs would watch and masturbate. Prosecutors further alleged that Combs coerced women with drugs, financial support, or promises of career advancement.
Combs’ lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, argued that the activities were consensual, stating, “Is it trafficking? Not if everybody wants to be there.”
Combs to Face Over 100 Additional Lawsuits
On Oct. 1, Texas-based attorney Tony Buzbee announced at a news conference that 120 additional accusers have come forward with allegations against Combs. These claims span over 20 years and include violent sexual assault, facilitated sex with controlled substances, and the sexual abuse of minors.
Buzbee revealed that his team has gathered substantial evidence, including pictures, videos, and texts. He also noted that over two dozen of the accusers were minors at the time of the alleged incidents, with some as young as 9 years old. Combs’ legal team denied these allegations, calling them false and defamatory.
Several Lawsuits Were Filed Under Unique New York Law
Several lawsuits against Combs were filed under New York’s Victims of Gender-Motivated Violence Protection Law. This law allows individuals to file sexual abuse claims after standard legal deadlines expire.
Combs’ ex-girlfriend, Casandra Ventura, was among the first to file a civil suit under this law, accusing him of assault and sex trafficking. Although Combs settled with Ventura for an undisclosed amount, more lawsuits followed.
Currently, Combs remains in custody at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. His attorneys plan to appeal the bail denials and seek his release as the cases continue.