Dawn Richard, a former member of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ music groups, has accused the music mogul of sexual abuse and mistreatment. Richard’s lawyer Lisa Bloom described the environment as “absolutely terrifying”.

Combs is currently in prison on sex trafficking, racketeering and prostitution charges. He denies all the allegations, calling them baseless and fabricated for financial gain. His legal team is fighting for his release, with a bail decision expected next week.

Richard first rose to prominence as part of Danity Kane, a group formed by The MTVs Making the band in 2005. He later joined Combs and Kalenna Harper in the group Diddy-Dirty Money in 2010, which disbanded in 2012.

In September, Richard filed a lawsuit alleging that sexual abuse de Combs and claims she witnessed his attack on Cassie Ventura, his ex-girlfriend. During a BBC Newsnight interview that aired on November 21, Bloom elaborated on Richard’s claims, stating that Combs groped and sexually assaulted her client.

Richard also accused Combs of withholding promised payments, depriving her of food and rest, and creating a hostile work environment. Bloom said: “He treated her horribly and left her terrified.”

The allegations extend beyond Richard. Bloom revealed that she represents another person who claims she suffered misconduct at Combs’ notorious “smash” parties. These events allegedly involved drugs and coercing people into sexual acts, often as part of business arrangements.

Bloom said: “Many others have come forward with allegations that they were forced into unwanted sexual activity under the guise of business dealings with Sean Combs.”

Richard also described witnessing Combs’ violent behavior toward Ventura and other women during their professional relationship. Bloom stated that when Richard confronted Combs about his actions, she was met with threats of further violence.

Combs’ attorney, Erica Wolff, denied the allegations, saying in a statement to People magazine that the claims are “shocking and disappointing”. Wolff accused Richard of demanding payment, saying the lawsuit was entirely fabricated.

As the case unfolds, Combs remains at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. His lawyers have repeatedly asked for bail, but he has yet to be released.

The allegations against Combs add to growing concerns about abuse and exploitation in the entertainment industry. Richard’s decision to speak out highlighted the challenges many face when dealing with powerful business figures.

While Combs denies all allegations, the claims made by Richard and others suggest a disturbing pattern of alleged wrongdoing. The upcoming legal proceedings are expected to reveal more details.

The entertainment world is watching this case closely, with potential implications for industry accountability.