US rapper and billionaire business tycoon, Sean "Diddy" Combs appeared in federal court on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, and pled not guilty to charges levied against by the federal agency.
Diddy is charged of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking.
CNN reports that, prosecutors, on the other hand, claim he engaged in various crimes, including sex trafficking, forced labour, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice.
US Attorney Damian Williams detailed the allegations, citing a 2016 incident where Combs allegedly assaulted his then-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura.
Furthetmore, prosecutors argue this incident, captured on hotel surveillance video, shows Combs' history of physical danger and obstruction.
Assistant US Attorney Emily Johnson stated that Combs attempted to bribe a hotel security officer and later deleted the surveillance video. Johnson emphasized that Combs' denials prior to the video's publication demonstrate he "lies to cover things up."
Meanwhile, reports of Combs arrest ensued on Monday night.
He was apprehended at the Park Hyatt Hotel in Manhattan and taken into custody by Homeland Security Investigations.
