Federal prosecutors have expanded the indictment against Sean “Diddy” Combs, adding two more charges related to allegations of sex trafficking, covering actions as recently as last year. A superseding indictment filed on Friday claims Combs used force, fraud, or coercion to force a woman, referred to as Victim-2, into commercial sex acts from 2021 through 2024. The indictment, presented by a federal grand jury in Manhattan, further alleges that Combs facilitated the transport of Victim-2 and others, including commercial sex workers, for prostitution during the same period.
These new charges follow the initial accusations of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking that Combs faced upon his arrest in September, bringing the total number of charges against him to five. Combs, aged 55, is currently detained in a federal jail in Brooklyn and is set to stand trial on May 5. His representatives have yet to comment on the new allegations.
Throughout the proceedings, Combs has consistently denied all allegations, pleading not guilty to previous charges. He is accused of coercing and abusing women over a prolonged period, allegedly using a network of associates to silence victims through intimidation tactics that included blackmail, kidnapping, arson, and physical violence.
The case has drawn attention partly due to a 2016 video purportedly showing Combs assaulting his then-girlfriend, Cassie, during what prosecutors label a “Freak Off.” His attorneys argue that the confrontation was taken out of context, describing it as part of a complicated but consensual relationship.
Defence counsel is actively seeking to have the charges dismissed, arguing that the prosecution’s case relies on the assertion that involvement of a male escort in consensual sexual activities constitutes a federal crime. In filings, Combs’ lawyer, Alexandra A.E. Shapiro, has contended that the government’s case is based on misconceived allegations and lacks legal grounding.
Notably, the initial indictment in January revealed that the prosecution’s case involves at least three women who allegedly were coerced into engaging in commercial sex acts in exchange for financial support and career opportunities from Combs.
The ongoing legal battle continues to unfold as the music mogul prepares to face trial, with the new superseding indictment marking the second charge amendment in his case.