Jay-Z, whose real name is Shawn Carter, has been accused in a civil lawsuit of drugging and raping a 13-year-old girl alongside Sean “Diddy” Combs at an after-party for the MTV Video Music Awards in 2000. The lawsuit, filed on Sunday in federal court, has sent shockwaves through the music industry.
The anonymous plaintiff, identified as “Jane Doe,” claims the assault occurred in the presence of a female celebrity who allegedly did nothing to stop it. According to the lawsuit, both Carter and Combs took turns assaulting the minor, with no intervention from others at the party.
The lawsuit was initially filed in October, naming Combs as a defendant, but was refiled on Sunday to include Carter. NBC News first broke the story, which has drawn widespread attention.
Jane Doe’s Allegations and Legal Maneuvers
The lawsuit was filed by Texas attorney Tony Buzbee, who has been pursuing multiple cases against Combs in recent months, accusing him of rape and physical assault. Buzbee claims Carter attempted to counteract his legal efforts by filing what he called a “frivolous” lawsuit against him.
Carter is the first major figure other than Combs to be listed in these lawsuits. Neither Carter nor Combs’ representatives have provided substantial public comment, though Carter issued a fiery statement dismissing the claims as a blackmail attempt.
Jay-Z Denounces Claims as ‘Blackmail’
“These allegations are so heinous in nature that I implore you to file a criminal complaint, not a civil one!” Carter stated. “If someone committed such a crime against a minor, they should face real justice and be locked away.” He also expressed deep concern over the impact on his family, particularly his children.
“My heartbreak is for my family,” Carter said, adding that the accusations will force him and his wife to have difficult conversations with their children about “the cruelty and greed of people.”
Combs Faces Mounting Legal Battles
While Jay-Z denies the claims, Combs is already embroiled in legal troubles. The hip-hop mogul was charged in September with federal crimes, including sex trafficking and racketeering. He is currently detained in Brooklyn awaiting a trial scheduled for May 5. Combs has denied all accusations and was denied bail for a third time last month.
Industry in Turmoil as Lawsuits Mount
This latest lawsuit adds to the growing list of allegations against Combs, which have ensnared him and now Carter in a web of serious accusations. Legal experts suggest the high-profile nature of these cases could lead to more scrutiny of the music industry and its power players.
The court battles are just beginning, and the stakes couldn’t be higher for the accused.
