Federal prosecutors argue there is no way out for Sean “Diddy” Combs.
The Bad Boy Records founder has pleaded not guilty to one count of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, each carrying a maximum sentence of life in prison, as well as one count of transportation for the purposes of prostitution.
But authorities said Combs’ Sept. 16 arrest was just the latest step in their quest to bring the 54-year-old to justice for more than a decade of alleged crimes, and that their investigation is far behind to be finished.
“Between at least 2008 and the present, Combs abused, threatened, and coerced his victims into gratifying his sexual desires, protecting his reputation, and concealing his conduct,” Damien Williamsthe U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York said in detailing the charges against the rapper during a September 17 press conference.
Combs is accused, Williams said, of using a vast network of employees within his business empire and other associates to cover up crimes including sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, corruption and obstruction of justice.
“The indictment alleges that Combs abused and exploited women and others for years and in a variety of ways,” the prosecutor continued, using “force, threats of force and coercion to cause the victims to engage in prolonged sexual performances with male sex workers.” “.