Sean “Diddy” Combs Faces Federal Charges of Sex Trafficking and Racketeering

September 17, 2024 — Just hours after Sean “Diddy” Combs was arrested in New York, federal authorities unsealed an indictment accusing the music mogul of serious charges including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation to engage in prostitution. The indictment, obtained by NBC News, details shocking allegations, claiming that Combs orchestrated events referred to as “Freak Offs,” involving elaborate sexual performances and forced participation through threats and coercion.

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According to the indictment, women were allegedly coerced into engaging in extended sex acts with male commercial sex workers during these events. Authorities reportedly seized disturbing evidence, including over 1,000 bottles of baby oil from Combs’ homes during raids conducted earlier this year.

Combs is also accused of organizing, directing, and filming these so-called “Freak Offs,” which allegedly occurred regularly and sometimes lasted multiple days. The indictment asserts that he transported commercial sex workers across state and international borders, adding to the gravity of the charges.

The indictment also accuses Combs of distributing controlled substances to victims to maintain control over them. The documents reveal that both Combs and his victims often required IV fluids to recover from the effects of drug use and physical exertion during these events.

The investigation paints a dark picture of a widespread criminal enterprise within Combs’ inner circle, referred to as the “Combs Enterprise.” The indictment claims that Combs’ employees, including security personnel and assistants, were involved in facilitating these illicit activities. Allegations against them include booking hotel rooms, arranging transportation, and ensuring that necessary supplies, such as narcotics and baby oil, were on hand. These employees are also accused of assisting in intimidating witnesses, covering up crimes, and maintaining the secretive nature of the “Freak Offs.”

Authorities raided Combs’ Miami and Los Angeles residences in March 2024, seizing additional evidence that supported the ongoing investigation. The indictment further alleges that Combs used physical, emotional, and verbal abuse to control his victims. These abuses reportedly included monitoring victims’ medical records, dictating their appearance, and controlling their housing and travel arrangements.

The extent of violence is also highlighted in the indictment, with allegations that some victims suffered injuries requiring weeks to heal. Witnesses who threatened to expose Combs’ conduct were reportedly met with acts of violence, including kidnapping and arson, as part of the efforts to silence them.

Following his arrest on September 16, Combs’ attorney, Marc Agnifilo, addressed the media, asserting that his client would plead not guilty to the charges. “He’s going to fight this with all of his energy and all of his might,” Agnifilo stated. The defense maintains that the allegations are part of a smear campaign, and Combs’ legal team expressed confidence that he would clear his name in court.

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Combs’ arrest marks the culmination of a months-long investigation, with federal agents executing search warrants earlier this year as part of the probe. The investigation first gained widespread attention following accusations of sexual misconduct and exploitation in lawsuits filed against the rapper beginning in late 2023. At the time, Combs vehemently denied the allegations, calling them baseless attempts at financial gain.

“This is an unjust prosecution of Mr. Combs,” Agnifilo added. “He is not criminal. Please reserve judgment until you have all the facts.”

As the case unfolds, the charges against Combs are expected to attract significant media attention. The indictment alleges that his criminal activities span more than a decade, dating back to around 2008. Prosecutors have described the criminal enterprise as deeply embedded in his business operations and influence.

For now, Diddy remains in federal custody as he prepares to fight the charges that could forever change the trajectory of his life and career. More details are expected to emerge as the case moves forward in the courts.