Diddy's Legal Team Challenges Anonymity of 13 Accusers as Sexual Assault Lawsuits Rise to 27

Diddy's Legal Team Challenges Anonymity of 13 Accusers as Sexual Assault Lawsuits Rise to 27

By Marcus Delano Thompson

November 18, 2024 at 12:42 AM

Sean "Diddy" Combs' legal team is challenging the anonymity of over 13 accusers in sexual assault cases, amid a total of 27 civil lawsuits filed against him.

Red dominoes toppling in sequence

Red dominoes toppling in sequence

Combs' lawyers argue that anonymous plaintiffs (filed under Jane/John Doe pseudonyms) compromise his right to a fair trial. In his criminal case involving racketeering and sex trafficking charges, the defense is pushing prosecutors to reveal accuser identities.

Key points about anonymity in sexual assault cases:

  • US civil courts generally favor anonymity in sexual assault cases, especially involving minors
  • Judges often prioritize defendant's right to a fair and open trial
  • Two Federal District Court judges in Manhattan have already rejected anonymous plaintiff requests in Combs' cases
  • Similar cases against Harvey Weinstein and Kevin Spacey saw courts reject anonymous proceedings
  • Some courts consider plaintiffs' "mental anguish" in identity revelation decisions

Attorney Tony Buzbee, representing most anonymous plaintiffs, states his clients fear retribution. However, this argument may not hold since Combs is currently in Brooklyn jail awaiting trial next May.

Combs' legal team maintains all allegations are baseless and aimed at financial settlement. The outcome of these anonymity challenges could significantly impact how the cases proceed, as some plaintiffs in similar high-profile cases have withdrawn rather than reveal their identities.

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