Sean “Diddy” Combs, the renowned hip-hop mogul and founder of Bad Boy Records, is facing yet another legal challenge. Adria English, a former adult film actress who claims to have been employed by Combs from 2004 to 2009, has filed a lawsuit accusing him of sex trafficking and sexual assault.
This latest legal action, submitted on Wednesday to the US District Court for the Southern District of New York, adds to the mounting allegations against the music industry titan.
The lawsuit, spanning 114 pages, presents a disturbing narrative of exploitation and abuse. English alleges that Combs and other defendants used her as,
“A sexual pawn for the pleasure and financial benefit of others” during lavish “White Parties” held at Combs’ residences in the Hamptons, New York, and Miami, Florida.
These events, known for their all-white dress code and exclusive guest lists, have long been the style of Combs’ social circle. The complaint further claims that between 2006 and 2009, Combs coerced English to “engage in prostitution and sex work,” suggesting a systematic pattern of abuse spanning several years.
Ninth Lawsuit Since November 2023
This lawsuit marks a significant escalation in the legal troubles surrounding Combs. It is the ninth lawsuit filed against him since November of 2023, with eight of these directly accusing him of sexual assault.
One notable case, brought by his former girlfriend Cassie Ventura, has already been settled out of court. Additionally, Combs’ son, Christian ‘King’ Combs, faces a separate lawsuit alleging sexual assault, with Sean Combs accused of aiding and abetting in that instance.
In response to English’s allegations, Jonathan Davis, an attorney representing Combs, issued a statement maintaining his client’s innocence:
“No matter how many lawsuits are filed it won’t change the fact that Mr. Combs has never sexually assaulted or sex trafficked anyone.”
Davis further emphasized the ease with which lawsuits can be filed, stating,
“We live in a world where anyone can file a lawsuit for any reason and without any proof. Fortunately, a fair and impartial judicial process exists to find the truth and Mr. Combs is confident he will prevail against these and other baseless claims in court.”
In the lawsuit, English is seeking a range of financial compensations. She demands that Vibe magazine and PMC (Penske Media Corporation) forfeit their profits from the November 2006 issue. Additionally, she’s requesting reimbursement for her legal expenses and compensation for any losses incurred.
The lawsuit also leaves room for “further legal and equitable relief” as the court may deem appropriate. English has explicitly requested that her case be heard and decided by a jury trial.
Sickening Allegations
While Combs has vehemently denied many of the allegations from previous lawsuits, he has not responded to all claims. In December 2023, following the filing of four lawsuits against him, Combs took to social media to defend himself, writing:
The legal challenges facing Combs extend beyond civil courts. Sources familiar with an ongoing federal investigation have revealed to CNN that US Justice Department officials are preparing to bring Combs’ accusers before a federal grand jury.
This development suggests that federal authorities may be moving towards seeking an indictment against the music mogul. The potential presentation of civil lawsuit plaintiffs to a grand jury represents a significant escalation in the government’s investigation into Combs and his business practices.
