NEW YORK, NY – Sean “Diddy” Combs, the renowned music mogul, pleaded not guilty to a series of serious charges, including racketeering, conspiracy, and sex trafficking, following a stunning indictment revealed today. The courtroom in Lower Manhattan was packed with attorneys, press, and 12 of Combs’ family and friends as he stood with a solemn expression, scanning the room.
Prosecutors argued that Combs is a flight risk and poses an extreme danger to the community, labeling him a serial abuser and manipulator. They contended that Combs has used his wealth, influence, and a network of employees to facilitate and cover up his alleged crimes. The defense countered by emphasizing that Combs had flown to New York voluntarily, anticipating his arrest, and had handed over his passports, demonstrating his willingness to cooperate. Despite these arguments, the judge ruled that Combs be held without bail.
The indictment paints a grim picture of a criminal enterprise orchestrated by Combs, involving forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice. Allegedly, Combs employed security staff, personal assistants, and high-ranking supervisors to aid and conceal his abusive actions. The indictment also references a March 2016 incident where Combs reportedly attacked his ex-girlfriend, singer Cassie, at a hotel, attempting to bribe staff to keep the incident quiet.
Further allegations state that Combs manipulated women into participating in elaborate sexual performances with male commercial sex workers, events referred to as “freakoffs,” which lasted for days and involved various narcotics. Combs is also accused of using drugs like OxyContin and codeine to control and exploit his victims, often resorting to violence and blackmail.
During searches of Combs’ Miami and Los Angeles homes, law enforcement seized drugs, over a thousand bottles of baby oil and lubricant, guns with defaced serial numbers, and ammunition. Combs has denied ownership of the firearms. His attorney asserted Combs’ innocence and declared their intent to appeal the no-bail ruling, with a hearing scheduled for tomorrow.
If convicted, Combs faces a minimum of 15 years in prison, with the possibility of a life sentence. This latest legal battle adds to a series of lawsuits and controversies surrounding the music icon, including a recent lawsuit filed by his ex-girlfriend Cassie, which was settled the day after it was filed. Federal agents raided Combs’ homes earlier this year, and video footage surfaced showing an altercation with Cassie in 2016.