Washington [US]: Pop icon Justin Bieber is not connected to the serious federal legal case involving music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, according to a statement released by Bieber’s spokesperson on May 15.
The clarification comes in response to online speculation that linked Bieber to the disturbing allegations against Combs, who is currently facing charges including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transporting individuals for prostitution, as reported by E! News.
Addressing the rumors directly, a spokesperson for Bieber stated:
“Although Justin is not among Sean Combs’ victims, there are individuals who were genuinely harmed by him.”
The statement emphasized that misdirected speculation harms the pursuit of justice:
“Shifting focus away from this reality detracts from the justice these victims rightfully deserve.”
Though Bieber and Combs have shared public moments in the past — including appearances on talk shows and YouTube videos during the early stages of Bieber’s career — there is no evidence of Bieber being a victim or involved in the alleged misconduct under federal investigation.
In a 2009 vlog on Bieber’s YouTube channel, Combs said:
“Where we’re hanging out and what we’re doing, we can’t really disclose, but it’s definitely a 15-year-old’s dream,”
a quote that has since resurfaced amid the ongoing legal scrutiny.
A later exchange in 2011 on Jimmy Kimmel Live! featured Combs joking with Bieber about their time together — clips that are now being re-examined by the public due to the charges Combs faces.
Combs was arrested in September 2024 following a federal investigation that uncovered alleged coercive, drug-fueled sex parties, reportedly referred to as “freak offs.” He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
During opening arguments on May 12, Combs’ attorney maintained his client’s innocence, stating:
“He will not own the things he did not do,”
while arguing that media coverage and details of Combs’ personal lifestyle — including his use of baby oil — are irrelevant to the legal proceedings, E! News reported.