The highly anticipated trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs begins in New York on May 5, with jury selection underway. Combs, 53, is facing severe criminal charges, including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transporting individuals for prostitution. A conviction could result in a life sentence.
In addition to the criminal case, Combs is embroiled in numerous civil lawsuits, with plaintiffs accusing him of drugging, assaulting, and raping individuals, as well as using his influence to intimidate and silence victims. Combs has denied all allegations, labeling the lawsuits as attempts to exploit his fame for financial gain.
Combs, a key figure in hip-hop since the 1990s, founded the iconic Bad Boy Records, which helped launch the careers of artists like The Notorious B.I.G., Mary J. Blige, and Mariah Carey. Beyond music, he has expanded his empire, most notably through his lucrative partnership with Diageo for Cîroc vodka.
Despite the legal storm surrounding him, Combs remains a significant cultural force, releasing The Love Album: Off The Grid in 2023 and receiving his first solo Grammy nomination. He was also honored as a Global Icon at the MTV Awards.
The criminal charges against Combs include allegations of kidnapping, coercion, and sexual assault, with reports suggesting the use of firearms and threats of violence. A police raid at his Los Angeles mansion allegedly uncovered drugs and materials intended for “freak offs”—orgies involving multiple partners.
Combs is also facing lawsuits dating back decades, including a December 2023 claim from a woman identified as Jane Doe, who accused him of gang rape in 2003 when she was 17. Combs has denied these allegations.
The mogul’s legal troubles intensified after his ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, filed a lawsuit accusing him of abuse and rape. Although the case was settled for an undisclosed amount, public attention increased after a 2016 CCTV video surfaced, showing Combs kicking Ventura in a hotel hallway. He later apologized, taking full responsibility for his actions.
As the trial progresses, the public is watching closely, with the outcome set to have a major impact on the legacy of one of the most influential figures in hip-hop.
