Federal prosecutors have unveiled a superseding indictment alleging Sean “Diddy” Combs coerced an employee into sexual acts and used threats of physical and financial harm to compel others to participate in a 20-year sex trafficking operation.
These new details augment the existing racketeering conspiracy charges Combs faces.
Combs has entered a not-guilty plea to racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation for prostitution.
The amended indictment from the US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York does not introduce new charges against Combs, who is detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. His trial is scheduled for May.
Prosecutors claim Combs and associates forced at least three women into sexual encounters, sometimes involving male prostitutes. These events, known as “Freak Offs,” allegedly involved drugging the women and forcing them into days-long sexual activity.
Authorities allege Combs recorded some of these acts and controlled victims through promises of financial and career advancement, as well as threats of violence and other harm.
Prosecutors further allege Combs subjected employees to excessive work hours and sleep deprivation. Employees reportedly feared job loss for non-compliance and faced threats of physical violence and reputational damage.
The indictment specifically alleges Combs used physical force, psychological harm, financial harm, and reputational harm, or the threat thereof, to coerce an employee into sexual acts.
Combs’ attorney, Marc Agnifilo, stated to CNN that his client “vehemently denies” the accusations. He anticipates proving in court that Combs never forced anyone into sexual acts against their will. Agnifilo added that many former employees support Combs and are prepared to testify to his dedication and the positive experiences they had working for him.
Combs is currently attempting to dismiss the prostitution charge and suppress evidence collected during searches of his properties and electronic devices.
Prosecutors have stated they possess recordings of the “Freak Offs” and found three AR-15 rifles with defaced serial numbers, along with over 1,000 bottles of baby oil and lubricant, during the searches.
