Dawn Richard, a former member of the girl group Danity Kane, has filed a lawsuit in Manhattan federal court against music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs, accusing him of years of psychological and physical abuse. The lawsuit alleges that Combs subjected Richard to sexual harassment, groping, and verbal abuse during their time working together, spanning from 2004 to 2011.
Richard, who rose to fame through the MTV reality series "Making the Band," claims in her lawsuit that Combs often created hostile work environments filled with violence and threats. According to Richard, Combs' explosive temper often led to violent outbursts, during which he would throw objects across the room or at people. The lawsuit further alleges that Combs routinely demanded that Richard strip down to her underwear and made demeaning remarks about her body in front of others.
In addition to the personal abuse she endured, Richard claims to have witnessed Combs physically assault his then-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, on multiple occasions. Richard’s lawsuit describes instances where Combs allegedly strangled, slapped, and choked Ventura, and even threw a hot pan of eggs at her. The lawsuit alleges that when Richard tried to intervene, Combs threatened her life, warning her not to speak about the abuse or face consequences.
“Ms. Richard has bravely added her voice to the growing chorus of victims sharing their harrowing stories of abuse,” reads her lawsuit. “Together, they seek justice.”
Combs' representatives responded to the lawsuit, calling the claims fabricated and suggesting that Richard was attempting to use the lawsuit to promote her career. “It’s unfortunate that Ms. Richard has cast their 20-year friendship aside to try and get money from him,” Combs’ representatives stated. “Mr. Combs is confidently standing on truth and looks forward to proving that in court.”
The lawsuit also implicates those around Combs, including record companies, for allowing his alleged abusive behavior to occur in public settings. Richard’s complaint asserts that companies such as Interscope Records were aware of Combs’ abusive tendencies and failed to intervene.
In May, CNN aired a 2016 video showing Combs assaulting Ventura, leading Combs to issue a public apology, calling his actions “inexcusable.” Richard’s lawsuit follows a separate legal claim filed by Ventura in November 2023, which was settled out of court.
Richard seeks unspecified damages for economic losses, physical injury, and emotional distress. This lawsuit is the latest in a string of legal battles Combs has faced in recent months, many involving allegations of sexual misconduct. Despite these accusations, Combs continues to deny all claims, and his legal team has moved to dismiss many of the lawsuits.
As the legal battles continue, Richard’s lawsuit represents another high-profile accusation against Combs, with both sides preparing for a courtroom showdown.
#DawnRichard #SeanCombs #DanityKane #SexualHarassment #CassieVentura #MakingTheBand #MusicIndustry
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