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Former Danity Kane member Dawn Richard has filed a bombshell lawsuit against music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs, alleging a pattern of sexual and physical abuse spanning nearly a decade. The 55-page complaint, filed Tuesday in the Southern District of New York, paints a disturbing
picture of manipulation, violence, and exploitation behind the scenes at Bad Boy Records.
Richard's allegations date back to her time on MTV's "Making the Band" in 2005, where she claims Combs routinely belittled female contestants. After Danity Kane's formation, Richard says the group was subjected to sleep deprivation, food restriction, and verbal abuse.
The lawsuit details several alarming incidents, including one where Richard claims to have witnessed a "high on drugs" Combs violently assault his then-girlfriend Cassie Ventura in 2009. Richard alleges she and fellow Diddy-Dirty Money member Kalenna Harper were subsequently threatened to stay silent.
"Realizing that Mr. Combs was capable of committing acts of violence against women caused Ms. Richard to feel deep apprehension and fear," the lawsuit states. Richard claims Combs groped her on multiple occasions between 2009-2011 and retaliated when she rejected his advances.
The complaint also describes "drug-fueled" parties where young women, some appearing underage, were brought in and sexually exploited while incapacitated. Richard alleges Combs hired police to attend these events, "sending a clear message to guests that his influence extended to law enforcement."
Financially, Richard claims she is owed over $3 million in unpaid royalties and compensation from her work with Danity Kane and Diddy-Dirty Money. The lawsuit also accuses Combs of copyright infringement related to her contributions to his 2023 album.
This case joins a growing list of legal troubles for Combs. In November 2023, Cassie Ventura filed a lawsuit alleging years of abuse, which was quickly settled out of court. Since then, multiple women have come forward with similar accusations spanning decades.
Industry insiders are closely watching how these allegations may impact Combs' vast music empire. In September 2023, he announced plans to return publishing rights to former Bad Boy artists – a move some speculated was an attempt to preempt further controversy.
Representatives for Combs have yet to comment on Richard's allegations. As the legal process unfolds, many are left wondering what other stories may emerge from behind the curtain of Bad Boy's glittering facade.
