What’s happening with Sean “Diddy” Combs?

Warning: This story contains details that may be distressing for some readers.

Explainer: Once hailed as the king of US hip hop in the ’90s, P Diddy (real name: Sean Combs) is now facing serious legal troubles, including charges of sex trafficking and racketeering. How did he end up in this situation?

Who is P Diddy?
Sean “Diddy” Combs, 54, is a prominent US music mogul and hip hop producer who rose to fame in the ’90s. Known by various names such as Puff Daddy and P. Diddy, he initially gained recognition as the manager and producer of rapper Notorious B.I.G. A three-time Grammy winner, Combs has collaborated with numerous big names, including Mariah Carey and Usher. His debut album, No Way Out, sold seven million copies worldwide and featured the tribute song “I’ll Be Missing You” after Biggie’s death in 1997. Beyond music, he has ventured into fashion, launched a TV channel, and partnered with a major beverage company.

What charges is he facing?
Recently, Combs was arrested at a Manhattan hotel and charged with multiple counts, including sex trafficking and racketeering. Prosecutors allege he operated a criminal enterprise that exploited women over at least 16 years, coordinating events known as “freak offs.” Despite attempts by his defense to secure his release on a $50 million bond, prosecutors labeled him “extremely dangerous,” and he remains in custody.

What do we know about the “freak offs”?
Reports indicate that Combs organized these “freak offs,” during which participants were allegedly subjected to drug use and coerced sexual activities. Prosecutors claim that Combs used videos from these events to intimidate attendees. His legal team argues these encounters were consensual, with Combs’ lawyer stating, “Is it sex trafficking? No, not if everybody wants to be there.”

When did P Diddy’s troubles begin?
Combs’ legal issues began to escalate in late 2023 when he faced multiple lawsuits from women alleging abuse, including a high-profile case from former partner Cassie Ventura. After settling that case quickly, he was hit with further allegations of sex trafficking. In early 2024, Combs was accused of grooming by music producer Rodney Jones Jr., leading to a $50 million lawsuit. Following a raid by the US Department of Homeland Security at his properties, authorities found drugs and large quantities of lubricants, sparking significant public speculation.

In May 2024, a hotel surveillance video from 2016 showing Combs allegedly assaulting Cassie went public, prompting him to express remorse on Instagram, admitting his actions were “inexcusable” and stating he was committed to becoming a better man.

What’s next for Diddy?
In the coming months, a jury in Manhattan will determine which account of the events at the “freak off” parties is more credible.

In the meantime, Combs is likely to remain at the federal jail in Brooklyn, having been denied bail. The judge cited concerns about potential witness tampering and deemed him a danger to the community while he awaits his trial for sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy.

Prosecutors stated in court last week that they possess a “massive amount” of evidence, including witnesses, photos, videos, and text messages. This includes a video featuring Diddy and his ex-girlfriend, Ventura, where he appears to strike her and pull her by her hair while wearing only a towel in the hallway of the InterContinental Hotel in LA. It is alleged that she was trying to leave after one of the freak off events. Combs’ lawyer explained that Ventura had discovered evidence of the rapper having “more than one girlfriend,” which led to her hitting him with his phone and taking off with his clothes.