Sean “Diddy” Combs Secures Partial Legal Victory Ahead of Trial
A New York judge has dismissed several claims in producer Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones’ $30 million lawsuit against Sean “Diddy” Combs, though key allegations of sexual assault and premises liability will proceed, according to court documents obtained by *People* magazine on March 24.
Jones, who collaborated on Combs’ *Love* album, accused the music mogul of sexual harassment, drugging, and threats between 2022 and 2023. His lawsuit also alleged that Combs and associates sexually assaulted him. Combs’ legal team has vehemently denied the claims, labeling them “pure fiction.”
Judge J. Paul Oetken dismissed multiple allegations, including Jones’ RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) claims, citing insufficient evidence connecting Combs’ business operations to the alleged misconduct. The judge also threw out claims under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) against Combs Global but allowed similar allegations against Combs and his chief of staff, Kristina Khorram, to advance.
The court upheld Jones’ premises liability claim, ruling that Combs had “possession and control” of properties where the alleged assaults occurred. However, Jones’ claims of emotional distress and breach of contract—related to unpaid work on *Love*—were dismissed due to lack of evidence.
Combs remains in federal custody on unrelated charges, including racketeering and sex trafficking. His trial is scheduled for May 5.
