Sean “Diddy” Combs and Fonzworth Bentley Named in New Georgia Lawsuit Alleging Misconduct
Atlanta, GA – Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs and longtime associate Fonzworth Bentley are at the center of a newly filed civil lawsuit in Georgia, with allegations stemming from incidents that reportedly occurred more than two decades ago.
The lawsuit, filed in Fulton County on Friday, May 24, by an Atlanta man now in his 40s, outlines serious claims of misconduct involving both Combs and Bentley dating back to 2003. According to court documents, the plaintiff was working with a local talent agency at the time and alleges that he was approached by Bentley regarding potential opportunities with the Sean John fashion brand, which was founded by Combs in 1998.
The plaintiff claims that he was led to believe he would be helping identify talent for upcoming campaigns and events related to the brand. As part of that engagement, he says he was encouraged to bring individuals—including two minors—to an event he believed was related to fashion or entertainment.
What followed, the lawsuit claims, was a series of events that the plaintiff alleges led to exploitation, trauma, and long-lasting emotional distress. He also alleges that he was personally victimized during the time he worked alongside Combs’ inner circle.
Specifically the lawsuit alleges s***al assault of two 13 year old girls, and the man.
At this time, Combs and Bentley have not publicly responded to the lawsuit. As of publication, no criminal charges have been filed in connection with the case, and both men are presumed to deny the allegations.
The lawsuit marks the latest in a series of legal challenges involving Sean Combs in recent months. Federal agents raided multiple properties owned by Combs earlier this year as part of a broader investigation into alleged misconduct. While details of that investigation remain largely sealed, the growing number of civil lawsuits has continued to keep the Bad Boy Records founder in national headlines.
Fonzworth Bentley, born Derek Watkins, gained fame in the early 2000s as Combs’ personal assistant and quickly became a recognizable figure in hip-hop culture. Known for his signature umbrella and polished style, Bentley later pursued a career in entertainment and publishing, branding himself as a gentleman’s lifestyle expert.
The new legal filing in Georgia adds another layer to the scrutiny facing Combs and his associates. Legal experts say the renewed focus on historical cases—many of which involve high-profile figures in the entertainment industry—is part of a broader cultural shift, with more plaintiffs coming forward under expanded civil statutes.
The lawsuit seeks unspecified monetary damages and references both emotional and reputational harm. Attorneys for the plaintiff have emphasized that their client is seeking accountability and justice, and that the case is not politically or financially motivated.
“This is about truth and transparency,” the plaintiff’s legal team said in a statement. “Our client has carried this trauma for years, and he is choosing to speak now because he believes it is the right time to be heard.”
Online, reaction to the lawsuit has been swift. Fans and followers of both Combs and Bentley are expressing a mix of shock, disbelief, and calls for clarity. Others are pointing to the broader conversation around accountability in the music industry, particularly when it comes to events that occurred during the late ‘90s and early 2000s.
At this time, court proceedings have yet to be scheduled, and neither Combs nor Bentley has been ordered to appear in court. Media Take Out will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as more information becomes available.
For media inquiries or legal updates, follow Media Take Out’s ongoing coverage.