For more than two decades, Sean “Diddy” Combs was one of hip-hop’s most opportunistic entrepreneurs, spinning his hitmaking talents into a broad business empire that included a record label, a fashion brand, a TV network, deals with liquor companies and a key role in a reality TV show.

The criminal case against Sean “Diddy” Combs was sparked after a startling 2023 civil lawsuit from his former girlfriend in which she alleged years of abuse and violence.

Combs, who then performed as Puff Daddy, released his 1997 debut album, “No Way Out,” on his Bad Boy Records label. According to Diddy, the album was heavily inspired by the March 9, 1997 shooting death of Diddy’s close confidant and Bad Boy artist Notorious B.I.G.

CNN published a 2016 video appearing to show Sean Combs assaulting his then-girlfriend Cassie. Here's a timeline of their relationship.

Since November 2023, at least 70 lawsuits have alleged Diddy assaulted and sometimes sex trafficked victims. Here's a timeline of these incidents.

The federal trial against Sean Combs, the Bad Boy Records founder turned businessman, is underway. He faces charges for racketeering conspiracy and prostitution. Catch updates from the trial here.

Sean "Diddy" Combs' trial for sex trafficking and racketeering charges begins Monday, more than a year after he settled a lawsuit filed by his ex, Cassie Ventura, who accused him of rape and abuse.

Cassie Ventura took the stand as the prosecution’s star witness. She recounted years of alleged manipulation and abuse, describing a life dominated by Combs’ orchestrated “freak-offs” — multi-day, drug-fueled encounters with sex workers. Her testimony painted a chilling albeit alleged portrait of control, fear, and psychological torment.