Additional Coverage:
Dawn Richard has filed a federal lawsuit against Sean “Diddy” Combs, her former boss and the man behind the MTV-created girl group Danity Kane. Filed in the Southern District of New York, Richard’s suit accuses Combs of groping, assaulting, and imprisoning her, and of threatening her life when she attempted to defend Combs’ then-girlfriend.
In addition to the assault accusations, Richard claims she is owed millions in unpaid wages from her time with Danity Kane and another group founded by Combs. Lisa Bloom, Richard’s attorney, stated her commitment to seeking justice for Richard, who is asking for a jury trial.
Combs, who vehemently denies the allegations, expressed through his legal team that he is “shocked and disappointed” by Richard’s claims. His attorney, Erica Wolff, argued that the timing of the lawsuit coincides suspiciously with Richard’s album release, suggesting it may be financially motivated. Wolff criticized Richard for allegedly fabricating claims and betraying a 20-year friendship.
Richard’s lawsuit claims she was inspired to come forward by other similar allegations against Combs, including a high-profile case filed by his ex-girlfriend Cassie (Casandra Ventura). Cassie’s lawsuit, which accused Combs of rape and recurring physical abuse, was settled the day after it was filed, though the terms remain undisclosed.
While Richard didn’t initially disclose her personal experiences concerning the allegations against Combs, her lawsuit now asserts she witnessed repeated acts of violence against Cassie. According to Richard, Combs’ abusive behavior included striking Cassie with his hands and objects, and in one instance, throwing a hot pan of eggs at her before dragging her up stairs. Richard claims Combs threatened her life multiple times to prevent her from intervening.
The lawsuit further portrays a hostile work environment during Richard’s employment with Combs from 2005 to 2012, encompassing her tenure in Danity Kane and Diddy — Dirty Money. Combs allegedly routinely insulted and bullied the band members, withheld earnings, and made unwanted advances. On numerous occasions, Richard claims Combs humiliated her by forcing her to strip to her underwear and berated her appearance.
The suit also includes allegations against Harve Pierre, a former president of Combs’ record label, along with various labels. Richard claims she is owed $3.3 million in unpaid wages and royalties from Danity Kane and another $1.55 million from Diddy — Dirty Money.
In addition to chronicling Combs’ abusive behavior, Richard’s lawsuit describes incidents of Combs locking her and her bandmate in vehicles without interior handles, and recounts parties at Combs’ homes where she witnessed underage girls being exploited. It alleges that Combs’ influence even extended to law enforcement, creating an atmosphere of intimidation meant to discourage reports of his behavior.
Richard’s lawsuit contends that Combs’ prominent public persona concealed a pattern of violence and abuse toward women in his circle. She seeks compensatory and punitive damages for lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages.