Sean “Diddy” Combs has pleaded not guilty to charges of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. The music mogul entered the plea on Tuesday after appearing in court following his arrest on Monday night in Manhattan.
The indictment against Combs includes three charges: racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion, and transporting individuals to engage in prostitution. Prosecutors allege these activities took place between 2009 and 2018 for sex trafficking and from 2009 to 2024 for transportation related to prostitution.
According to the indictment, Combs is accused of using his business empire to create an environment where illegal activities like sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, and other offenses were allegedly carried out. It also claims that Combs “abused, threatened, and coerced” women and others to serve his personal interests and maintain his public image.
The allegations include claims that Combs engaged in a pattern of physical, emotional, and sexual misconduct. Prosecutors allege that he coerced women into participating in events referred to as “Freak Offs,” where extended sexual activities were arranged, and that his associates transported sex workers across state lines, actions they say meet the criteria for sex trafficking and prostitution.
Combs was taken into custody on Monday, and the charges were officially revealed on Tuesday. His attorney, Marc Agnifilo, maintains that Combs is innocent and has been proactive in facing these allegations. “He voluntarily relocated to New York last week in anticipation of these charges and has nothing to hide,” Agnifilo told CNN.
