Trouble seems to loom larger for US rapper Sean 'Diddy' Combs as has been hit with serious charges, following his arrest on September 16 in Manhattan. A grand jury has indicted the hip-hop star on allegations of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transporting individuals for prostitution, with the alleged crimes dating back to 2008.
Sean 'Diddy' Combs Indicted On Sex Trafficking And Racketeering
According to a report in Entertainment Weekly, the indictment details shocking accusations, claiming Combs abused his power to exploit women and others for his personal satisfaction while shielding his public image. The document states “For decades, the defendant abused, threatened, and coerced women and others around him to fulfil his sexual desires, protect his reputation, and conceal his conduct."
The charges point to a "pattern of abuse" that was not only physical but also emotional and sexual. The indictment accuses Combs of using narcotics, financial control, and violence to manipulate women and force their participation in illegal acts, including prostitution across state lines.
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The rapper-songwriter is expected to face a judge soon, where the charges will be officially read. His attorney, Marc Agnifilo, has already spoken out, calling the case "unjust" and maintaining that Combs is innocent. "We look forward to clearing his name in court," Agnifilo added, highlighting that Combs had voluntarily returned to New York in anticipation of the charges.
Sean 'Diddy' Combs' Ex-Girlfriend's Sexual Assualt Lawsuit Against Rapper
These charges come on the heels of a year of controversy for the music icon. In 2023, Combs faced a lawsuit from ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, accusing him of years of sexual and physical abuse. Though he denied the claims, the case was quickly settled. Since then, multiple accusers have filed similar lawsuits against him.
Federal agents raided his homes in Los Angeles and Miami earlier this year, part of a larger investigation by Homeland Security. Combs slammed the raids as an excessive show of force. Adding to his troubles, a resurfaced video from May showing Combs physically assaulting Ventura went viral, prompting a public apology from the star, admitting his disgust at his own behavior.
As Combs prepares to fight these latest charges, his legal battles scare him. More accusations, including a recent lawsuit by former adult film star Adria English, continue to cast a shadow over his career.