Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Faces Federal Charges of Racketeering, Sex Trafficking, and Prostitution
Sean Combs, the famed rapper and music mogul also known as Puff Daddy or Diddy, has been charged by federal prosecutors in the Southern District of New York with racketeering, sex trafficking, and transportation to engage in prostitution. The charges allege that Combs operated a large-scale sex trafficking enterprise for two decades, from 2004 to 2024.
Combs, 55, pleaded not guilty to all charges. If convicted, he faces the possibility of spending the rest of his life in prison.
Who Is Sean Combs?
Starting in the early 1990s, Combs built his career as a hip-hop producer and co-founder of Bad Boy Records, launching major artists like The Notorious B.I.G. and Faith Evans. He also rose as a solo artist and diversified his business ventures to include fashion, TV production, and liquor brands. By 2022, his fortune was estimated at around $1 billion.
The Allegations
The indictment alleges Combs sexually trafficked three women, controlled them through physical and emotional abuse, supplied drugs to keep victims compliant, and orchestrated drug- and sex-fueled parties, often filming the activities. He allegedly paid victims and witnesses to remain silent.
Combs also faces multiple civil lawsuits accusing him of rape and sexual assault, many connected to parties hosted by him.
Racketeering Charges
Prosecutors argue Combs used his vast entertainment empire and influence to conceal and facilitate these crimes, leveraging his business and employees for illicit purposes.
Testimony of Ex-Girlfriend Cassie Ventura
Singer and model Cassie Ventura, who was in an 11-year relationship with Combs, testified against him. She accused Combs of physical and sexual abuse, including violent attacks and coercion into “freak-offs” — drug-fueled sex marathons lasting days. Ventura recounted how Combs controlled many aspects of her life and described specific violent incidents, including one caught on video aired by CNN in 2024. She ended the relationship in 2018 after alleging that Combs raped her.
Broader Context
The case draws parallels with recent racketeering charges against rapper Young Thug and his label, highlighting ongoing investigations into the intersection of music enterprises and criminal activities.
