Federal prosecutors have expanded their case against hip-hop mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs with fresh allegations of forced labor and employee exploitation, according to a new indictment filed Thursday.
The updated federal charges claim Combs and his associates maintained control over employees by forcing them to work extensive hours with minimal rest through threats of physical force, financial consequences, and reputational damage. Prosecutors allege this created an environment where workers feared job loss if they did not comply with his demands.
The indictment details that one unnamed employee was allegedly coerced into performing sexual acts with Combs through similar intimidation tactics.
While no new charges were added, the latest filing builds upon existing accusations that Combs operated a two-decade sex trafficking scheme from 2004 to 2024 through what prosecutors describe as a "criminal enterprise" disguised as his business empire.
Combs, 55, who is currently held in a Brooklyn detention facility, has pleaded not guilty to federal charges including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation to engage in prostitution. His trial is scheduled for May 5.
His attorney Marc Agnifilo maintains Combs's innocence, stating that many former employees are "prepared to attest to the dedication, hard work and inspiration they experienced" while working with the music mogul.
The case has drawn increased scrutiny following multiple civil lawsuits filed against Combs alleging sexual assault and misconduct, which he has consistently denied. Prosecutors expect to provide additional case details by March 10, with Combs's arraignment on the new indictment scheduled for March 14.