Sean "Diddy" Combs is accused of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and providing transportation for prostitutes, among other serious offenses. Prosecutors claim that Combs forced women into doing sex acts by using his corporate power and social standing.
In a federal court in Manhattan, Combs, 54, entered a not-guilty plea to the charges on Tuesday. 14 pages make up the indictment, which was made public the same day.
As a result of the prosecution's plea for Combs to remain in custody, U.S. Magistrate Judge Robyn Tarnofsky refused Combs bail. This choice was made in response to Combs' Monday arrest.
Following the prosecution's plea for Combs to remain in custody, U.S. Magistrate Judge Robyn Tarnofsky refused bail for Combs. Combs was arrested on Monday, which led to this decision.
Marc Agnifilo, Combs' attorney, said that the sexual acts detailed by the prosecution were consensual rather than indicative of sex trafficking. "Does anybody have experience being intimate in this way?" asked Agnifilo. No. Is it trafficking in sex? No. Not if everyone desires to attend."
If found guilty, Combs faces a minimum of 15 years in prison or a life sentence. Prostitution-related transportation, sex trafficking, and racketeering conspiracy are among the charges.
The indictment alleges that Combs enticed women using drugs like ketamine and ecstasy, financial support, or promises of career advancement or romantic relationships.
Prosecutors also accuse Combs of using recorded sexual acts as "collateral" to keep women silent, along with employing intimidation tactics such as displaying weapons.
While the indictment does not allege direct sexual contact by Combs, it includes accusations of assault, including punching, kicking, dragging, and throwing objects.
The indictment also accuses Combs and his associates of using bribery, violence, arson, and kidnapping to cover up his actions.
When asked how he wished to plead, Combs, dressed in a black T-shirt and gray sweatpants, simply stated, "Not guilty."
Judge Tarnofsky noted that the crime occurs behind closed doors, which contributed to the decision to deny bail. Combs was subsequently led out of the courtroom by U.S. Marshals.
Agnifilo plans to appeal the decision to keep Combs detained, with a hearing scheduled before U.S. District Judge Andrew Carter, who will oversee the case.
Known for his influential role in the music industry, Combs founded Bad Boy Records and helped launch the careers of artists such as Mary J. Blige and Notorious B.I.G.
Prosecutors argue that Combs operated a criminal enterprise to exploit women over a span of at least 16 years. "The defendant Sean Combs physically and sexually abused victims for decades," said prosecutor Emily Johnson.
The defense sought to release Combs on a $50 million bond secured by his Miami home. Agnifilo acknowledged Combs' history of drug use and toxic relationships but did not provide specific details about his treatment.
Since R. Kelly was found guilty of identical allegations and given a 31-year jail sentence, Combs is the most well-known member of the music industry to face accusations of sexual misconduct.
Combs' career has been affected by several civil lawsuits accusing him of sexual and other misconduct. In one case, former girlfriend Cassie accused him of physical abuse and sexual slavery, leading to a settlement.
Prosecutors cited a March 2016 incident resembling Cassie's allegations, where Combs was recorded on hotel security video attacking a woman at a "Freak Off" and bribing a hotel security officer.
During recent raids on Combs' homes in Los Angeles and Miami Beach, authorities found drugs, 1,000 bottles of baby oil and lubricant, and AR-15 rifles with defaced serial numbers.
.jpg)
