Hip-hop mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs was indicted yesterday on federal charges of racketeering, sex trafficking, and transportation to engage in prostitution following his arrest in Manhattan Monday night. The 54-year-old music executive has pleaded not guilty and was ordered to stay in jail while awaiting trial. See the indictment here.
Prosecutors allege Combs used his business empire—spanning music, alcohol, and fashion—and his employees to facilitate and conceal criminal activities. Combs has faced multiple lawsuits this year, including one filed in November by his former partner, R&B artist Cassie, who accused him of years of physical assault and rape. The indictment includes several allegations that date back 15 years. Federal agents raided Combs' California and Florida homes in March, where they allegedly found narcotics and more than 1,000 bottles of oil and lubricant.
The charges make Combs the highest-profile figure in the music industry to face federal sexual misconduct charges since R. Kelly, who is currently serving a 30-year term.
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