(NewsNation) — A radio personality and former associate of Sean “Diddy” Combs said that people in the music industry were generally aware of what happened at the more exclusive “after after” parties that the hip-hop mogul was known for hosting.
DJ Steph Lova of Baltimore’s Magic 95.9, who attended Howard University with Combs and worked at a New York radio station during his rise to prominence, said she was unaware of the alleged “freakoffs” or illegal activities.
“The freakoffs … that’s all new to me,” Lova said Sunday on “NewsNation Prime.”
She added that while Combs was known for throwing parties, “All the stuff that happened after the actual party, those were private invites.”
“You had to be kind of with the sugar, honey, iced tea … people knew what goes on at the after-after party. It’s just a matter if you know you want to get down like that. This is the music business … it’s not for the weak,” Lova said.
Combs was arrested last week in Manhattan on federal charges including racketeering, sex trafficking and prostitution. These charges come amid several civil lawsuits accusing him of sexual abuse and other misconduct.
And the charges follow raids on his properties where authorities reportedly found evidence of drug-fueled sex parties and weapons.
Lova said she was shocked at the music mogul’s arrest, calling the situation “unbelievable” given his rise to fame and philanthropic efforts.
Regarding the music industry’s muted response to the allegations, Lova suggested that many might be concerned about potential evidence. “A lot of them might be on them tapes,” she said, referring to reported recordings seized by authorities.
Lova speculated that recent departures of music industry executives might be connected to fears of being implicated. “People should be nervous. They should be very cautious,” she added.
Dawn Richard has faced backlash after suing Diddy: Attorney
The attorney for a woman suing Combs says recent federal charges against the music mogul have been “validating” for his client.
Arick Fudali, representing singer Dawn Richard in a civil lawsuit against Combs, told NewsNation that the similarities between his client’s allegations and the federal indictment are “striking.”
“Seeing that has been very encouraging and validating for our client,” Fudali said Sunday on “NewsNation Prime.” Richard was a member of Diddy’s Danity Kane and Dirty Money groups.
Richard’s lawsuit, filed days before Combs’ arrest, accuses the rapper of sexual battery, sexual harassment and false imprisonment. Fudali emphasized that his client’s primary goal is “accountability and justice,” not financial gain.
“We specifically and intentionally did not put a dollar amount in our civil complaint,” Fudali stated. “For her, it’s really about justice, it’s really about accountability, and it’s really about also inspiring and empowering others.”
Fudali said Richard was inspired to come forward after Cassie Ventura, Combs’ former girlfriend, filed her own lawsuit. That suit was settled one day after filing.
Combs has denied all allegations against him. His defense attorney has characterized some of the alleged threats as a “lover’s spat,” a description Fudali strongly disputes.
Fudali said that Richard “has faced some online backlash” for coming forward with her lawsuit against Combs.
“So it’s very brave of her, and very difficult because anytime someone is brave enough to sue or to bring charges or allegations against someone as powerful and prominent as Mr. Combs, you face backlash,” Fudali said.