Sean Combs Faces Sex Trafficking Trial, Lawyer Denies Criminal Violence

Sean "Diddy" Combs faces a federal trial in New York where prosecutors allege he used violence and coercion over two decades to force women into drug-fueled sexual encounters, supported by an inner circle that helped commit and cover up crimes including kidnapping, arson, and bribery. Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson detailed these accusations in opening statements, portraying Combs as a man whose criminal activities spanned 20 years. In contrast, Combs' defense attorney, Teny Geragos, argued that the case is a misguided attempt to criminalize consensual adult relationships, describing it as rooted in "love, jealousy, infidelity, and money" rather than sex trafficking. Geragos acknowledged Combs' history of violent outbursts linked to alcohol and drugs, accepting responsibility for domestic violence but firmly distinguishing it from sex trafficking. She also emphasized that Combs' unconventional sexual lifestyle and activities, including the use of baby oil in consensual acts, do not constitute criminal behavior. The trial has attracted intense public attention, with Combs pleading not guilty to charges that could result in life imprisonment if convicted.