A Michigan inmate has been awarded a $100-million US judgment against rapper and record producer Sean (Diddy) Combs after accusing him of drugging and sexually assaulting him at a party almost 30 years ago. The judgment was won by default in Lenawee County Circuit Court during a virtual hearing on Monday, as Combs failed to appear.
Combs' lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, has stated that the rapper plans to have the judgment dismissed, calling the accuser, Derrick Lee Smith, a convicted felon and sexual predator. Smith, who is currently serving a 75-year sentence for sexual misconduct and kidnapping charges, filed complaints against Combs in June and August. He was granted a temporary restraining order against Combs, who is facing several other sexual assault cases.
In addition to these legal troubles, Combs recently admitted to beating his ex-girlfriend Cassie in a hotel hallway in 2016 after a video of the attack was released by CNN. Combs issued a public apology, stating that he takes full responsibility for his actions and is "disgusted" by his behavior.
Despite the statute of limitations expiring on the 2016 incident, attorney Gloria Allred, who has represented women in cases alleging sexual assault against high-profile celebrities, has suggested that Combs could still face federal charges. This comes after Homeland Security Investigations agents raided two of his properties in Los Angeles and Miami as part of an ongoing sex trafficking investigation.
Combs, the founder of Bad Boy Records and a successful performer and entrepreneur, faces ongoing legal challenges despite his influential status in the music industry. His legal team continues to fight the accusations brought against him by Smith and others.