Sean “Diddy” Combs is facing new sexual assault allegations.
The rap star — who is currently awaiting trial on federal sex crime charges — and his former bodyguard, Joseph Sherman, have been accused of raping Thalia Graves at the Bad Boy Records studio in New York in the summer of 2001.
During a press conference about the new lawsuit on Sept. 24, Graves explained that the alleged assault left her feeling “worthless and isolated.”
Graves claimed that she’s suffered PTSD, flashbacks, nightmares and thoughts of suicide over the last 23 years.
“It’s a pain that reaches into your very core,” she added.
Combs is currently in jail in New York awaiting trial. Graves observed that his situation has provided a “temporary feeling of relief.”
“I’m glad Diddy is locked up, but that’s a temporary feeling of relief,” she said.
Combs‘ legal team has not yet responded to the latest allegations. However, Combs pleaded not guilty to allegations of sex trafficking earlier this month.
The rap star appeared at a court in Manhattan after being charged with racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion and transportation to engage in prostitution.
“Not guilty,” Combs replied, when asked how he pleaded to the charges during a court hearing.
The rapper’s lawyers subsequently requested that Combs be freed on bond — pending trial — after paying a sum of $50 million.
However, following a a lengthy debate between legal teams on whether Combs represents a flight risk, Magistrate Judge Robyn Tarnofsky announced that the rap star will remain in detention until his sex trafficking trial begins.
Marc Agnifilo — Combs’ lawyer — said later that the music star is determined to “establish his innocence.”
“He’s going to fight this. He’s innocent. He came to New York to establish his innocence. We believe in him wholeheartedly. He didn’t do these things. There’s no coercion and no crime,” Agnifilo told reporters outside the court.
If you or someone you know is dealing with or has dealt with sexual violence, contact RAINN at 800.656.HOPE (4673) or chat online.
If you or someone you know needs help, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 (TALK) or text or call the Suicide & Crisis Hotline at 988.
