Pop star distances himself from Diddy’s legal scandal, urges focus on real victims.
Justin Bieber’s team has issued a statement addressing speculation around his possible involvement in the ongoing criminal case against Sean “Diddy” Combs. The music mogul is currently facing serious federal charges including sex trafficking, racketeering, and operating a criminal enterprise — offenses that could land him a life sentence if convicted.
In a statement shared with People on Friday (May 16), a representative for Bieber clarified:
“Although Justin is not among Sean Combs’ victims, there are individuals who were genuinely harmed by him. Shifting focus away from this reality detracts from the justice these victims rightfully deserve.”
This marks the first time the “Peaches” singer has publicly addressed Combs’ situation since the producer’s arrest in September 2024. Federal prosecutors allege Combs orchestrated a decades-long criminal operation involving the abuse and coercion of women through drug-fueled sex parties known as “freak-offs.”
Combs has denied all charges. During opening statements earlier this week (May 12), his defense attorney stated, “Sean Combs is a complicated man, but this is not a complicated case. We take full responsibility that there was domestic violence. Domestic violence is not sex trafficking.”
The trial entered its fifth day Friday, with attention centered on the emotional testimony of Combs’ former partner, Cassie Ventura. Her November 2023 civil lawsuit — now settled — was the first to accuse the Bad Boy Records founder of rape and prolonged abuse. That suit opened the floodgates for additional lawsuits and a criminal investigation.
Bieber’s Past Association With Combs
As Combs’ downfall continues to make headlines, some fans have revisited the artist’s past connections with Bieber. A 2009 YouTube video — which has amassed over 11 million views — shows a then 15-year-old Bieber spending 48 hours with Combs. In the clip, the pair talk about fast cars and girls, with Combs notably saying, “Where we’re hanging out and what we’re doing, we can’t really disclose. But it’s definitely a 15-year-old’s dream.”
The two later appeared on stage together at the BET SOS: Saving Ourselves benefit concert in 2010 and again on Jimmy Kimmel Live! in 2011. In that interview, Combs remarked, “We’ve become friends in a strange way … [Justin] knows better than to be talking about the things that he does with Big Brother Puff on national television.”
In 2014, Bieber attended Combs’ DeLeón Tequila launch party in Atlanta. Photos from the event show Bieber seated next to Cassie Ventura and Combs posing with his arm around the Canadian star.
Despite their past interactions, Bieber’s team has made it clear he is not involved in any of the legal proceedings, and the singer has emphasized support for actual survivors.
What’s Next in the Trial
As the trial continues, the spotlight remains on the testimonies of those who say they were victimized by Combs. Cassie’s emotional statements may be pivotal in establishing a pattern of abuse. Meanwhile, more public figures connected to Combs may continue to issue clarifications as scrutiny intensifies.
