Rapper Sean 'Diddy' Combs has pleaded not guilty to charges of sex trafficking, racketeering and transportation to engage in prostitution.
The background: The rapper and producer was arrested in Manhattan on Monday night.
Prosecutors accused Combs of running a criminal enterprise to facilitate his exploitation of women, dating back at least 16 years.
According to the indictment, Combs enticed women by giving them drugs such as ketamine and ecstasy, financial support or promises of career support or a romantic relationship.
Combs then used surreptitious recordings of sex acts as "collateral" to ensure that the women would remain silent, and sometimes displayed weapons to intimidate abuse victims and witnesses, prosecutors said.
What else to know: Also known during his career as P Diddy and Puff Daddy, Combs founded Bad Boy records and is credited with helping turn rappers and R&B singers such as Mary J. Blige, Faith Evans, Notorious BIG and Usher into stars in the 1990s and 2000s.
What happens next: Combs faces a mandatory minimum 15-year prison sentence and up to life behind bars if convicted of the three felony counts.
If you or someone you know is impacted by family and domestic violence or sexual assault call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit
Readers seeking support can contact Lifeline crisis support on 13 11 14, Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 and Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 (for young people aged 5 to 25). More information is available at
Anyone seeking information or support relating to child sexual abuse can contact Bravehearts on 1800 272 831 or Blue Knot on 1300 657 380.
