Sean “Diddy” Combs is facing a new lawsuit alleging that he assaulted a 10-year-old boy in a New York City hotel room in 2005. According to the lawsuit, the young boy, who was an aspiring actor and rapper, traveled from California with his parents to attend meetings with industry executives, including Combs. The alleged incident occurred during what was supposed to be an audition, during which the child was reportedly given a drug-laced soft drink by an associate of Combs, leading to a severe assault.
In a second lawsuit, a 17-year-old aspiring musician claims Combs assaulted him in 2008 during a three-day audition process for the reality television series *Making the Band.* The young man, who hoped to compete on the show, alleges that Combs forced him to perform sexual acts, framing it as a “test” of his dedication to the industry. This experience reportedly led to the teenager’s elimination from the competition, damaging his chances of pursuing a music career for years.
These lawsuits are the latest in a series of cases against Combs, which collectively span over two decades and involve various allegations of sexual assault and abuse. Many plaintiffs allege that Combs exploited his position at parties and private meetings, subjecting them to unwanted sexual advances and violence. These claims reflect a pattern that is now under serious legal scrutiny.
Combs’ legal team has categorically denied the recent allegations, asserting that the claims lack merit and accusing the plaintiffs’ attorney, Anthony Buzbee, of pursuing publicity. They argue that Combs is committed to a fair judicial process and emphasize their confidence that the court will prove his innocence, particularly refuting the allegations of sexual assault or trafficking.
Attorney Anthony Buzbee, who represents more than 150 alleged victims of Combs, has filed at least 17 lawsuits against the rapper. Buzbee maintains that his clients deserve justice and emphasizes the magnitude of the allegations. His involvement has increased the visibility of the cases, drawing attention to the claims and further polarizing public opinion.
Combs’ team has issued a public statement, asserting his innocence and expressing full faith in the integrity of the judicial process. They argue that in court, “the truth will prevail” and insist that Combs has not been involved in any form of sexual assault or trafficking, involving either adults or minors, throughout his career.
Apart from these new civil suits, Combs is also facing federal sex trafficking charges, to which he pleaded not guilty. The charges were unsealed following his arrest on September 16, revealing accusations of coercion and abuse toward women, coupled with threats of violence and blackmail used to silence his alleged victims. Combs remains in jail in New York City as he awaits trial.
The broader criminal case against Combs includes disturbing accusations that he used his influence to coerce women into sexual acts, leveraging his power within the industry to intimidate and control them. Prosecutors argue that he silenced several victims by threatening them with blackmail and physical violence, adding to the severity of the charges.
The recent lawsuits are being filed under New York City’s Victims of Gender-Motivated Violence Protection Act, which allows survivors of gender-based violence to bring forward claims even after the typical statute of limitations has expired. This provision is particularly relevant in cases where victims are fearful of speaking out for years due to the influence and power of the alleged abuser.
Combs’ criminal trial is scheduled for May 5, 2025, where the court will assess the federal charges and potentially hear testimony from alleged victims. This trial is expected to bring more details and evidence to light, possibly impacting the ongoing civil lawsuits. The outcome of the trial will likely have significant implications for Combs and may also influence how the music industry addresses abuse allegations going forward.
