Hip-hop mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs remains in federal custody as he faces trial on sex trafficking and other charges, a New York federal judge ruled on Tuesday. Prosecutors allege that Combs ran a criminal enterprise that used drugs and violence to coerce women into fulfilling his sexual desires.
Combs appeared in court after his arrest on Monday evening and pleaded not guilty to the charges. Despite his defense team’s appeal for bail, the judge denied it, citing concerns that Combs posed a flight risk.
His lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, vehemently defended Combs, stating that they believe in his innocence and that he is the target of an unjust prosecution. Federal prosecutors, however, claim that Combs abused, threatened, and coerced women to protect his reputation and conceal his conduct.
The indictment against Combs includes charges of racketeering, sex trafficking by force, and transportation to engage in prostitution. Prosecutors also accuse him of creating a criminal enterprise that engaged in sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, and bribery.
This is not the first time Combs has faced accusations of violence. In the past, his then-girlfriend filed a civil lawsuit against him, alleging violent abuse. Combs denied the accusations and settled the case, but later issued a public apology after video footage surfaced showing him assaulting her.
The recent indictment against Combs includes details of his alleged violent behavior and intimate relationships. Prosecutors claim that he used his status to lure female victims into engaging in “Freak Offs,” during which he distributed controlled substances to keep them compliant.
During raids on Combs’s homes in Miami and Los Angeles, federal agents reportedly found firearms, ammunition, and over 1,000 bottles of lubricant. Further charges may be pending, according to US prosecutor Damian Williams.
Combs, a prominent figure in the music industry, has faced multiple sexual assault allegations in the past. Despite his denials, his reputation has suffered, with him returning a ceremonial key to the city of New York and having his honorary degree from Howard University revoked.
As the case unfolds, the public awaits the outcome of Combs’s trial and the resolution of the serious charges against him.
