Sean "Diddy" Combs has asked a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit filed against him by music producer Rodney "Lil Rod" Jones, alleging a pattern of sexual abuse and misconduct. The motion to dismiss claims that the lawsuit is filled with "tall tales," "legally meaningless allegations," and "blatant falsehoods" aimed at generating media hype and extracting a settlement. The motion argues that the case fails to establish Jones' standing to sue, lacks essential details, and does not make any viable claims.
Several lawsuits alleging sexual abuse against Combs had already been filed when Jones sued in February. In March, federal raids on Combs' homes revealed that he was the subject of a criminal sex trafficking investigation. The following month, a hotel security video showing Combs physically assaulting his then-girlfriend, R&B singer Cassie, aired on CNN. Combs later posted an apology video on social media, acknowledging his actions as "inexcusable."
Jones' lawsuit describes a year he spent producing an album for Combs in 2022 and 2023, alleging witness to illegal drug and sexual activity. Combs' motion argues that the suit is an attempt to turn a commercial dispute into a criminal conspiracy without evidence. Jones also claims that Combs groomed him for sex, groped him, and pressured him to solicit prostitutes.
Combs has denied the allegations in the lawsuits against him, stating in a post in December that he did not commit any of the alleged acts. The motion to dismiss Jones' lawsuit argues that it lacks basic facts, such as where and when the alleged assaults occurred, and fails to provide evidence of coercion. Combs' lawyers maintain that the lawsuit is built on farfetched tales and lacks substantial allegations.