Sean "Diddy" Combs is preparing to testify in his own defense at his upcoming federal sex trafficking trial, according to his lawyer, Marc Agnifilo. Combs, the 54-year-old hip-hop mogul, faces charges of racketeering, sex trafficking, and conspiracy, among other serious allegations. Agnifilo, in a preview of the upcoming TMZ Studios documentary The Downfall of Diddy: The Indictment, emphasized that Combs is eager to take the stand and defend himself before the jury. "There is nothing that could keep him off the stand. He is very eager to tell his own story," Agnifilo stated.
Combs' willingness to testify is a bold move that could significantly impact his defense, as it opens him up to cross-examination by federal prosecutors. During this process, Combs will likely face questions regarding incriminating evidence, including footage of him physically assaulting his ex-girlfriend, R&B singer Cassie, and allegations surrounding his notorious "freak-off" parties. These gatherings are described in the indictment as sexually coercive events involving drugs, violence, and the exploitation of victims.
The charges against Combs stem from a 14-page federal indictment unsealed after his September 16 arrest, which paints a picture of a sprawling criminal enterprise. The indictment alleges that for decades, Combs abused, threatened, and coerced women and those around him to fulfill his sexual desires while also protecting his reputation. The charges include racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, and transportation to engage in prostitution. Combs' alleged enterprise reportedly engaged in a wide array of illegal activities, including forced labor, bribery, and obstruction of justice.
Among the most salacious details in the indictment is the discovery of over 1,000 bottles of baby oil and lubricant during federal raids on Combs' Miami and Los Angeles properties. The items were allegedly used in the "freak-off" parties where victims were forced to engage in sex acts. Agnifilo downplayed this finding, explaining to The New York Post that the number was exaggerated, adding, "I think Americans buy in bulk, as we know," and reiterating that the sexual encounters in question were consensual.
Combs has been a towering figure in the music industry for decades, first rising to fame as the founder of Bad Boy Records. However, in recent years, his personal and professional life has been clouded by allegations of abuse and corruption. In November 2023, Cassie sued Combs, accusing him of physical and sexual abuse over the course of their 10-year relationship. Though the lawsuit was settled out of court within a day, it prompted a wave of accusations from other alleged victims, several of whom have also filed lawsuits.
Combs has denied all allegations of wrongdoing, maintaining his innocence. After his arrest, he released a statement expressing his determination to clear his name: "I will fight this with every ounce of my strength and spirit." His lawyer echoed this sentiment, stating that the case against Combs is built on misunderstandings and that the artist is eager to provide his side of the story.
Despite Combs' public displays of remorse, including a widely circulated video where he apologizes for his past behavior and claims to have sought therapy, the legal challenges facing him continue to mount. The Southern District of New York's prosecution alleges that Combs masterminded sex trafficking operations, employing drugs, threats, and manipulation to control his victims. According to court documents, Combs reportedly coerced women into performing sex acts while he observed or masturbated, often recording the encounters. His defense team has argued that these acts were consensual.
The trial has not yet been scheduled, but as preparations continue, Combs remains in custody at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. There, he is being held without bail, as a judge ruled that he poses a flight risk and is a danger to others. Despite mounting calls for his resignation, Combs remains defiant and confident in his legal strategy.
