Sean “Diddy” Combs was taken into custody on Tuesday to await trial in a federal sex trafficking case that alleges he oversaw a corrupt empire of sexual exploitation, upheld by blackmail and extreme violence.
The hip-hop mogul faces charges of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, with accusations dating back to 2008. He is alleged to have coerced female victims and male sex workers into drug-fueled, marathon sexual events dubbed “Freak Offs.” The indictment also alludes to a violent incident involving his ex-girlfriend, singer Cassie, which was caught on video.
Combs stood before the court and, after calmly listening to the charges, pleaded “Not guilty.” His lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, vowed to fight the charges, expressing confidence in Combs’ innocence and revealing plans to appeal the judge’s decision to deny bail. Afterward, Combs was led out of court, glancing back at his family as he left.
Combs is accused of using his status to sexually abuse women, with assistance from his staff to cover up the crimes. Prosecutors argue that he also attempted to bribe and intimidate witnesses to prevent them from coming forward.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson described Combs as a “serial abuser and a serial obstructor.” While Agnifilo admitted Combs had issues with drugs and toxic relationships, he insisted the case stemmed from a consensual relationship, likely referencing his involvement with Cassie.
Agnifilo maintained that the “Freak Offs” were consensual and not coercive, arguing that authorities were interfering with his client’s private life. Prosecutors, however, have interviewed over 50 victims and witnesses and plan to present a mountain of evidence, including financial records, travel logs, and video footage.
Combs was arrested in Manhattan following federal raids on his homes in Los Angeles and Miami six months earlier. If convicted on all charges, he faces a minimum of 15 years in prison, with the possibility of a life sentence.
The indictment portrays Combs as the leader of a criminal operation involved in sex trafficking, forced labor, drug offenses, and other serious crimes. He allegedly manipulated women with promises of career advancement, while using violence and threats to control them, often recording their participation in the “Freak Offs.”
Authorities seized drugs, weapons, and large quantities of lubricant during the raids on Combs’ properties. Prosecutors claim that Combs used explicit recordings as leverage to keep victims compliant, while also controlling their lives and appearances.
As the case progressed, Combs allegedly attempted to bribe witnesses and fabricate false narratives to obscure the truth. The indictment also details incidents of arson and kidnapping linked to Combs as part of his broader criminal enterprise.
Combs’ reputation as a music industry titan has been tarnished by these allegations, which first came to light when Ventura filed a lawsuit accusing him of years of abuse. Though the lawsuit was quickly settled, more disturbing accusations and video evidence have continued to surface, shaking the public’s perception of the once-revered figure.
