Sean “Diddy” Combs is demanding the release of his alleged victims’ identities as he faces a series of sexual assault and rape lawsuits. In recent court filings obtained on Tuesday, October 15, Combs’ attorneys requested the court compel the government to disclose the names of his accusers, who filed their complaints anonymously as John and Jane Does. Combs’ legal team argues this is critical to prepare his defense adequately.
On October 14, four men and two women filed lawsuits against Combs, represented by attorney Tony Buzbee, who claims to have over 120 clients with similar allegations against the music mogul. In response, Combs’ legal team highlighted his public status, past litigation, and recent accusations, asserting that the “grand jury leaks and inflammatory statements” have unfairly tainted Combs’ reputation and impacted his right to a fair trial.
The legal team insists that the lawsuit influx has created a “pervasive ripple effect,” suggesting that the media’s portrayal of Combs has led to “false and exaggerated claims.” Citing prior discredited claims, Combs’ attorneys labeled these allegations as part of a “hysterical media circus” that could “irreparably” impact his chance for an impartial trial.
According to the court filing, Combs’ attorneys argue that the anonymous nature of the allegations creates challenges for defense preparation, suggesting that the identities of the alleged victims are essential to scrutinize the credibility of the claims. They believe that such clarity will shed light on what they describe as “consensual sexual history,” which may be relevant to refute allegations of coercion.
In the high-profile legal battle, Combs is currently held at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center, following his arrest on September 16 in Manhattan. His attorneys have since filed multiple requests for his release on bail, all of which have been denied.
As the legal proceedings unfold, Combs’ attorneys continue to call for the alleged victims’ identities to ensure a comprehensive defense, claiming that without this, Combs faces an insurmountable disadvantage in court due to public opinion and prosecutorial discretion.