Federal prosecutors contend there is no way out Sean “Diddy” Combs.
The Bad Boy Records founder has pleaded not guilty to one count of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, each of which carries a maximum penalty of life in prison, as well as one count of transportation for the purposes of prostitution.
But authorities said Combs’ arrest on September 16 was only the latest step in their quest to bring the 54-year-old to justice for alleged crimes that lasted more than a decade, and that their investigation is far from over.
“Between 2008 and at least the present, Combs abused, threatened, and coerced victims into fulfilling their sexual desires, protecting his reputation, and concealing his conduct.” Damian WilliamsThe US Attorney for the Southern District of New York detailed the charges against the rapper during a press conference on September 17.
Combs is accused of using a vast network of employees within his business empire and other associates to cover up crimes including sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery and obstruction of justice, Williams said.
“The indictment alleges that Combs abused and exploited women and other persons for years and in a variety of ways,” the prosecutor continued, using “force, threats of force, and coercion to induce victims to engage in extended sexual advances with male commercial sex workers.” “.