Judge dismisses 5 charges in Diddy's $30M lawsuit
What's the story
A judge has dismissed the majority of the charges in a $30 million sexual assault lawsuit against Sean "Diddy" Combs, filed by former producer Rodney "Lil Rod" Jones.
The lawsuit, filed in February 2024, accused Combs of making unwanted sexual advances and forcing Jones to hire sex workers.
Jones named several others along with Combs, including his son Justin, chief of staff Kristina Khorram, Universal Music Group CEO Lucian Grainge, and former Motown Records CEO Ethiopia Habtemariam.
Legal proceedings
Judge dismissed RICO charge, emotional distress claims
Per Variety, Judge J. Paul Oetken granted and denied parts of Combs's motion to dismiss the case.
The judge dismissed the RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) charge against Combs and Khorram due to the lack of a viable argument.
He also dismissed claims of negligent and intentional infliction of emotional distress, breach of contract, and the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) against Combs Global.
But the TVPA claims against Combs and Khorram were not dismissed.
Attorney reprimand
Judge reprimanded Jones's attorney for conduct
Along with dismissing the charges, Judge Oetken also reprimanded Jones's attorney Tyrone Blackburn for his conduct toward the motion.
The judge called Blackburn's conduct "unsettling," adding that his filings "are replete with inaccurate statements of law, conclusory accusations, and inappropriate ad hominem attacks on opposing counsel."
Oetken warned that any further misconduct may lead to sanctions or referral for discipline.
Yet, Blackburn told Variety, "A win is a win. Play time is over. Now, it is time for discovery."
Lawsuit details
Allegations against Combs detailed in lawsuit
Jones filed the lawsuit after producing six songs on Combs's Grammy-nominated The Love Album: Off the Grid, which was released in September 2023.
The lawsuit claims that Combs acquired, used, and distributed ecstasy, cocaine, and other illegal drugs; displayed illegal firearms; and laced alcoholic drinks offered to minors and sex workers at his various homes.
The judge has not dismissed the sexual assault and liability claims against Combs.