Sean “Diddy” Combs – one of hip-hop’s giants for decades – is facing severe legal and financial consequences after being recently accused of horrific acts. Although the rapper has created a multi-million dollar empire, today, sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation for the purpose of prostitution are now part of his history.
After arriving on the scene in 2024, Judge Susan Fernburn denied Combs’ request for $50 million bail and deemed him “a serious flight risk,” so he remains behind bars. He will be tried in May 2025 and could face a sentence of 15 years to life in prison. More civil lawsuits will also soon follow over a decade of sexual violence.
The legal troubles began in November 2023 when ex Cassie Ventura sued him for rape and abuse. The lawsuit also created a flood of other accusers, and soon his business records were in the news.
As Combs’ legal fees mount, The Sun reports that the businessman has begun leasing assets to fund them — like his $25 million Gulfstream G550 private jet. At the same time, he also sold his LA mansion for $60 million.
Combs’ business empire, once praised for its make-it-all mentality, has been hit hard.
Macy’s dropped Sean John, his clothing brand, following the allegations. On top of that, a bitter legal dispute ended his two-decade partnership with Ciroc Vodka. According to Forbes, Combs’ net worth is said to have dropped from $1 billion to about $400 million.
However, according to some industry experts, the growing number of streams of Combs’ music could bring short-term financial benefits amid this turmoil. But they warn that public needs are changing and this boost may not last.
An anonymous industry insider told the Sun It’s possible that as more details emerge about the trial, some radio stations may avoid him. They fear that a lengthy prison term will mark the end of his music career.
The insider said: “If Sean receives a long sentence, his time in the music business will end forever and revenue from his record business will eventually dwindle to a trickle ”.
While it’s too early for anyone to predict what the trial will hold, some observers have commented that Combs’ legacy could easily influence the outcome of his case and the reaction of you for [the allegations].
The fallen tycoon now has a long road ahead to try to rebuild his tarnished self-image and make back the money he once had.