Justin Bieber breaks silence on Diddy sex trafficking trial, denies victim speculation
Amid mounting speculation surrounding Sean “Diddy” Combs’ ongoing sex trafficking and racketeering trial, Justin Bieber has publicly addressed rumors linking him to the case. The Canadian pop star, who had previously remained silent, issued a firm denial through a spokesperson on Friday.
Justin Bieber and Sean "Diddy" Combs.
Theo Wargo/Getty Images; Gregg DeGuire/Getty Images for The Recording Academy
“Although Justin is not among Sean Combs’ victims, there are individuals who were genuinely harmed by him,” said a representative for Bieber, in a statement obtained by People. “Shifting focus away from this reality detracts from the justice these victims rightfully deserve.”
The statement marks the first time Bieber has commented on Combs' legal troubles, despite past speculation stemming from a resurfaced video dating back to 2009. In the clip, a then-15-year-old Bieber is seen spending time with Combs in a YouTube video titled JUSTIN BIEBER’s 48 HRS with DIDDY!!. The footage, once viewed as harmless promotion, has taken on a more ominous tone in light of the allegations now facing Combs.
In the video, Combs is heard saying, “For the next 48 hours, he’s with me. And we’re gonna go full. Buck full crazy,” to which Bieber replies, “Let’s just go get some girls.” Combs then responds, “Man after my heart. That’s what I’m talking about.”
The exchange has fueled online speculation about the nature of their relationship. However, sources close to Bieber have emphasized that his longtime security chief, Kenny Hamilton, actively protected the young singer from potential predatory behavior during his early years in the music industry.
Sean Combs was arrested in September and is currently standing trial on charges related to sex trafficking and racketeering. Singer Cassie Ventura, who had an 11-year relationship with Combs, is the prosecution’s key witness. Her 2023 lawsuit accusing Combs of rape, abuse, and trafficking catalyzed the federal investigation.
Prosecutors allege that Combs ran a criminal enterprise beginning as early as 2008, exploiting women under the guise of his music business operations. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. If convicted, Combs could face a minimum of 15 years in federal prison.
Bieber’s statement underscores a broader call to refocus public attention on the real victims in the case, as sensational speculation continues to dominate headlines.
