Sean Combs’ mother expresses deep devastation and sorrow over the allegations against him
Janice Small Combs is standing firmly in defense of her illustrious son, Sean “Diddy” Combs. The acclaimed musician and producer finds himself detained by federal authorities, awaiting trial in the Southern District of New York. He faces allegations of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transporting individuals for prostitution. He has entered a plea of not guilty.
Aside from the criminal charges, Combs contends with multiple civil lawsuits. These lawsuits allege various forms of sexual misconduct and other illicit activities. On Sunday, Janice Combs released a heartfelt statement through her legal representative, which gained traction on social media.
"As a mother overwhelmed with grief, I stand before you today, deeply troubled by the accusations leveled against Sean," her message began. "It breaks my heart to witness my son being judged not by truth, but by a fabricated narrative," she expressed. "The public's seemingly relentless attack on him, without allowing him the chance to vindicate himself, inflicts an indescribable pain."
The proceedings have cast a harsh light on Sean Combs’ purported private lifestyle. Federal prosecutors, in their indictment, referenced alleged "Freak Offs," a term coined by Combs for extravagant sexual displays. He is accused of administering drugs and coercing victims into prolonged sexual acts with male escorts, starting in 2009.
Janice Combs also responded to a surveillance clip obtained by CNN, depicting Sean Combs assaulting Cassie Ventura, his then-girlfriend, in a Los Angeles hotel in 2016.
"My son may not have been entirely forthcoming about certain matters, such as denying past violence with an ex, when hotel footage revealed otherwise," she conceded. "Truth and falsehood sometimes intertwine so tightly that admitting any part becomes daunting, especially when it defies the norm or seems too convoluted to comprehend."
Initially, Sean Combs refuted Ventura's abuse allegations, which surfaced in a lawsuit prior to the video’s exposure. Following its release, he issued an apology.
"I was appalled at my actions then, and I remain appalled now. I sought professional help, engaged in therapy, and entered rehab," Combs confessed in a video posted on social media shortly after the footage aired. "I asked for divine mercy and grace. I am profoundly sorry. I strive daily to become a better man. I seek no forgiveness, only to express my sincere regret."
Janice Combs expressed her belief that Sean’s legal team’s decision to settle Ventura’s lawsuit, rather than contest it, inadvertently aided federal authorities. They interpreted the settlement as an admission of guilt.
"It’s crucial to understand that none of us, irrespective of our stature, are exempt from fear or error," she wrote. "A lack of transparency on one matter doesn’t equate to guilt regarding the heinous allegations and severe charges he faces."
Recently, Houston attorney Tony Buzbee and the AVA Law Group announced they represent at least 120 more individuals pursuing civil claims against Combs. CNN has contacted Combs’ legal representatives for their response to his mother’s statement.
