Dawn Richard, a former member of Sean "Diddy" Combs' music groups, has accused the music mogul of sexual abuse and mistreatment. Richard's attorney, Lisa Bloom, described the environment as "absolutely terrifying."
Combs is currently in jail, facing charges related to sex trafficking, racketeering, and prostitution. He denies all allegations, calling them baseless and fabricated for financial gain. His legal team is fighting for his release, with a bail decision expected next week.
Richard first gained prominence as part of Danity Kane, a group formed on MTV's Making the Band in 2005. She later joined Combs and Kalenna Harper in the group Diddy-Dirty Money in 2010, which disbanded in 2012.
In September, Richard filed a lawsuit alleging sexual abuse by Combs and claims she witnessed him physically assault Cassie Ventura, his former girlfriend. During a BBC Newsnight interview aired on November 21, Bloom elaborated on Richard's claims, stating that Combs had groped and sexually assaulted her client.
Richard also accused Combs of withholding promised payments, depriving her of food and rest, and creating a hostile work environment. Bloom said, "He treated her terribly and left her terrified."
The allegations extend beyond Richard. Bloom revealed she represents another individual who claims to have suffered misconduct at Combs' notorious "freak-off" parties. These events allegedly involved drugging and coercing individuals into sexual acts, often as part of business arrangements.
Bloom said, "Many others have come forward with allegations of being forced into unwanted sexual activity, under the guise of business dealings with Sean Combs."
Richard also described witnessing Combs' violent behavior toward Ventura and other women during their professional relationship. Bloom stated that when Richard confronted Combs about his actions, she was met with threats of further violence.
Combs' attorney, Erica Wolff, dismissed the accusations, stating in a comment to People magazine that the claims are "shocking and disappointing." Wolff accused Richard of seeking a payout, asserting that the lawsuit was entirely fabricated.
As the case unfolds, Combs remains at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. His attorneys have repeatedly sought bail, but he has yet to be released.
The allegations against Combs add to growing concerns about abuse and exploitation within the entertainment industry. Richard's decision to speak out has highlighted the challenges many face when confronting powerful figures in the business.
While Combs denies all accusations, the claims brought forward by Richard and others suggest a troubling pattern of alleged misconduct. The legal proceedings ahead are expected to reveal more details.
The entertainment world watches closely as this case unfolds, with potential implications for accountability in the industry.
