As the lawsuits against Sean “Diddy” Combs continue to pile up, some folks have questioned if the horrifying allegations are true or just a money grab scheme. The ex-boyfriend of one of Combs’ most recent accusers claims the latter.
Thalia Graves filed a lawsuit against Combs shortly after he was arrested on federal charges of sex trafficking and racketeering. She claimed she was lured into meeting Combs and his bodyguard, Joseph Sherman, privately back in 2001. She then alleged she was drugged with a laced drink and “brutally” sexually abused by the two men. The suit also claims a video recording of the assault was shared among a number of people.
Supposedly, an anonymous man claiming to have been Graves’ ex-boyfriend told TMZ she planned back in November 2023 to sue the mogul for money, according to text messages that only TMZ has seen. That was about the time Bad Boy signee Casandra “Cassie” Ventura filed her scathing lawsuit accusing Combs of physical and sexual abuse.
The mystery man alleged Graves attempted to bribe him with $3 million to testify that he saw the alleged video recording of the sexual assault she cited in the suit. Since the interaction, the man told the media outlet he blocked Graves on social media and also blocked her phone number.
Graves’ attorney, Gloria Allred, did not immediately respond to The Root’s request for comment. However, in a statement to TMZ, she appeared unshaken by the allegations.
“It is very common that rich powerful men and their supporters attempt to discredit, shame and humiliate accusers who have the courage to come forward. The complaint speaks for itself. Our client is looking forward to her day in court,” said Allred.
Graves’ lawsuit was the 12th to come against Combs and the first to come after he arrested on criminal charges. He’s pleaded not guilty to the federal indictment and was denied bond.