Sean “Diddy” Combs is set to plead not guilty to charges of racketeering and sex trafficking, according to his lawyer. This declaration comes ahead of a scheduled court appearance in Manhattan, where the superstar rapper will face these serious allegations.
Combs, aged 54, was arrested on Monday by federal agents following a sealed indictment from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York. The indictment, which will be revealed during the court proceedings, has already been a topic of intense speculation.
Lawyer Marc Agnifilo stated that Combs is confident in his innocence. “He’s not guilty of these charges,” Agnifilo said, adding that Combs’s spirits are high. “He’s prepared to fight this with all his energy.”
The case against Combs also includes several civil lawsuits accusing him of being a violent sexual predator who used alcohol and drugs to exploit his victims. In March, federal agents raided his luxury homes in Miami and Los Angeles, signaling a major investigation into his activities.
Combs, who has been a prominent figure in the music industry under various names including Puff Daddy and P Diddy, is known for his significant contributions to hip-hop. Despite his success and influence, he has faced longstanding allegations of physical assault, with recent lawsuits highlighting disturbing claims.
One major lawsuit came from singer Cassie Ventura, who alleged a decade of coercion and a 2018 rape. The suit was settled out of court, but further allegations followed, including a claim of gang rape by Combs and others when the accuser was just 17.
The legal troubles surrounding Combs have cast a shadow over his illustrious career, which began in Harlem and quickly rose through the ranks of hip-hop. Known for his work with Bad Boy Records and collaborations with major artists, Combs has also ventured into Hollywood, reality TV, and fashion.
The upcoming court proceedings will be closely watched, as they could have significant implications for Combs and his extensive career in the entertainment industry.
