Sean “Diddy” Combs has been arrested following a federal indictment that charges him with racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transporting individuals to engage in prostitution. Federal agents apprehended the music mogul in the lobby of a Manhattan hotel on September 16, and he is expected to appear in New York District Court today.
The indictment outlines that Combs allegedly utilized his extensive music empire, including his record label Bad Boy Entertainment, to promote himself and fulfill personal desires, particularly those related to sexual gratification. This involved the exploitation of women and the use of commercial sex workers.
Moreover, the indictment accuses Combs of establishing a support system for his violent behavior, detailing the roles of staff members who allegedly enabled or participated in the abuse. This arrest comes amidst a series of civil lawsuits dating back to November, which allege a pattern of sexual misconduct, abuse, and trafficking across state lines. The lawsuits began with a claim from Combs’ former girlfriend, singer Cassandra Ventura, who accused him of decades of abuse, including forcing her to film sexual encounters with male prostitutes.
Although Ventura’s lawsuit was settled quickly out of court, it prompted a wave of additional civil suits from other individuals alleging similar patterns of misconduct linked to Combs. One notable allegation involved a claim that Combs, along with others, gang-raped a 17-year-old at a recording studio in Manhattan.
Additionally, record producer Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones filed a lawsuit this year against Combs, accusing him of forcing Jones to solicit sex workers and take illegal drugs, naming other high-profile individuals as co-defendants. Former employee Dawn Richard has also come forward with allegations of abuse during her time in the girl group Danity Kane, detailing instances of witnessing Combs’ aggressive behavior.
In March, federal investigators conducted raids on Combs’ homes in Los Angeles and Miami, seizing various items, including weapons and materials purported to be related to the alleged activities described in the indictment. Combs’ attorney labeled these charges as unfounded, arguing that they stem from meritless civil lawsuits.
At the time of Combs’ arrest, his legal representation expressed disappointment over what they see as an unjust prosecution. They assert that Combs is innocent and intends to plead not guilty to all charges. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams indicated that Combs is considered a flight risk due to his wealth and connections and is requesting he be held without bail. If found guilty on all charges, Combs could face a minimum of 15 years to a maximum of life in prison.