Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sex trafficking trial set to open in New York • FRANCE 24 English

Shawn Combmes, known as PED, will see his day in court today as the federal government’s trial against the disgraced star opens in Manhattan. Prosecutors say Combmes engaged in racketeering, conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation to engage in prostitution. Charges that could put him behind bars for life. The indictment alleges that Combmes abused and exploited women and other people for years and in a variety of ways. As alleged, Combmes used force, threats of force, and coercion to cause victims to engage in extended sexual performances with male commercial sex workers, some of whom he transported or caused to be transported over state lines. The rapper and producer rose to fame in the9s as a celebrated figure of the East Coast hip hop scene, but critics say his success concealed serious abuse by the star. In 2023, Pedi was accused by his ex-girlfriend Cassandra Ventura, an R&B singer known as Cassie, of violent abuse and rape. Though the case was settled outside of court, dozens of people filed lawsuits following the accusation. Many claim that the rapper used violence, kidnapping, and drugs to coers women into sometimes days long sex parties called freakoffs by attendees. Combmes was arrested as part of a federal investigation in September 2024 and has since been held in a Brooklyn jail. He has maintained his innocence, saying that any sex acts were consensual. Sickening allegations have been made against me by individuals looking for a quick payday. Let me be absolutely clear. I did not do any of the awful things being alleged. I will fight for my name, my family, and for the truth. The beginning of the trial coincides with the day of the illustrious Met Gala where Combmes was welcomed alongside prominent American stars as recently as 2023. The first week of the trial is expected to consist of jury selection by the lawyers. Opening arguments are set to start on May 12th.

Jury selection begins Monday in New York in the trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs on sex-trafficking and racketeering charges. Prosecutors allege he led a crime ring that forced victims into drug-fueled sex parties. Combs denies the charges, claiming all acts were consensual. His lawyer cited his “swinger” lifestyle as part of the defence.
#Diddy #Sean Combs #sex trafficking

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