Sean “Diddy” Combs, a renowned rapper and music mogul, is set to stand trial on charges of sex trafficking and racketeering.
Additionally, he faces multiple lawsuits from individuals alleging they were harmed and exploited by him through drugs, alcohol, and physical abuse.
Combs has pleaded not guilty to the criminal charges and dismissed the lawsuits as attempts at financial gain.
If convicted, he could face life in prison for racketeering and a minimum of 15 years for sex trafficking.
Combs, also known by various stage names including Puff Daddy and P Diddy, rose to prominence in the 1990s, playing a pivotal role in launching the careers of Mary J. Blige and the Notorious B.I.G.
His record label, Bad Boy Records, became a dominant force in hip-hop, signing artists such as Faith Evans, Ma$e, 112, Mariah Carey, and Jennifer Lopez.
Beyond music, Combs built a lucrative business empire, notably partnering with British company Diageo in 2007 to promote Cîroc vodka in the U.S.
He released his fifth album, The Love Album: Off The Grid, in 2023 and received his first solo Grammy nomination, along with being honored as a Global Icon at the MTV Awards.
In the federal criminal case, Combs is charged with racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transporting individuals for prostitution.
Prosecutors allege he engaged in kidnapping, drugging, and coercing women into sexual activities, sometimes using firearms or threats.
A raid on his Los Angeles mansion uncovered alleged evidence of activities referred to as “freak offs,” including drugs and over 1,000 bottles of baby oil.
He also faces multiple civil lawsuits, with lawyer Tony Buzbee stating that more than 100 individuals have either sued or plan to sue Combs for sexual assault and related crimes.
Among the lawsuits, a woman identified as Jane Doe claimed in December 2023 that she was gang-raped by Combs and others in 2003 when she was 17, after being given drugs and alcohol.
His legal team dismissed these lawsuits as publicity stunts.
His legal troubles escalated in late 2023 when his ex-girlfriend, Casandra Ventura, known as Cassie, accused him of violent abuse and rape.
The lawsuit was settled the next day, but Combs maintained his innocence.
More allegations followed, with claims of sexual assault dating back to 1991.
In 2024, previously unseen CCTV footage leaked by CNN showed Combs kicking Ventura in a hotel hallway in 2016.
He later issued an apology, stating he took full responsibility for his actions and was disgusted by his behavior.
Despite the mounting accusations, Combs has consistently denied wrongdoing, calling the claims “sickening” and alleging they were financially motivated.
His lawyer reiterated his innocence in February, stating that the truth would prevail in court and that Combs never sexually assaulted or trafficked anyone.
Combs’ legal team has since filed a motion to dismiss part of the federal indictment, arguing he is being unfairly targeted due to his race.
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