High Stakes in Sean 'Diddy' Combs Sex-Trafficking Trial

Sean 'Diddy' Combs is set to stand trial in a high-profile sex trafficking case, highlighting the efforts of a new Civil Rights Unit in the Manhattan U.S. Attorney's office. This unit, created by Damian Williams in 2022, addresses civil rights violations and has handled notable cases since its inception.

The sex-trafficking trial of Sean 'Diddy' Combs, beginning Monday, represents a landmark case for the Manhattan U.S. Attorney's office's new Civil Rights Unit. Established in 2022 by then-Manhattan U.S. Attorney Damian Williams, the unit prosecutes civil rights violations.

With a nine-lawyer team, the unit has prosecuted 21 cases, achieving 15 guilty pleas and one conviction through trial. Combs' case, pending alongside nine others, brings unprecedented attention due to his celebrity status. Combs, an influencer in hip-hop culture, pleaded not guilty to charges of forcing women into sexual performances.

This development aligns with Williams' decision to centralize sex-trafficking cases amid rising hate crimes. The unit also recently charged the Alexander brothers and others with hate crimes. Former President Trump's appointee, Jay Clayton, expressed admiration for the unit's swift impact.

(With inputs from agencies.)