Thalia Graves has filed a lawsuit against Sean “Diddy” Combs, alleging that he and his bodyguard, Joseph Sherman, raped her in a New York City recording studio over 20 years ago after Combs had drugged her. In her federal court filing, Graves claims that she only became aware of a video recording of the alleged incident decades later, following the lawsuit filed by R&B singer Cassie against Combs, in which she accused him of years of abuse, including beatings and rape.
In the suit, Graves is seeking a jury trial and it marks the first lawsuit Combs has faced since his recent indictment on charges of sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation for prostitution. Combs has pleaded not guilty to these charges and has been denied bail. His representatives have not responded to requests for comment regarding Graves’ allegations.
The lawsuit describes how Graves met Combs in late 1999 or early 2000 through her boyfriend, an executive at Combs’ record label, Bad Boy Records. In the summer of 2001, Combs allegedly called Graves to discuss her boyfriend’s performance at the label and arranged to pick her up with Sherman driving. During the ride, Combs reportedly offered her a glass of wine, which caused her to feel lightheaded and weak.
Upon arriving at the studio, Graves alleges that she lost consciousness after being led to a private room by Combs, where she regained awareness tied up and naked. The suit details a horrific account of her being assaulted by Combs and Sherman, describing a violent encounter that left her terrified and powerless.
After the incident, Graves attempted to seek help but was too shaken to report the assault, fearing retaliation from Combs. The lawsuit emphasizes the trauma she endured and the long-lasting effects of the alleged attack on her life. Sherman’s response denies any knowledge or involvement in the alleged assault, stating he was not employed by Combs at the time.
These allegations add to the serious legal challenges facing Combs, who has faced multiple lawsuits regarding sexual assault and misconduct in recent months, leading to his ongoing legal battles and significant public scrutiny.