Sean “Diddy” Combs has been accused of sexual misconduct by 120 people, according to his lawyer

HOUSTON (AP) — A lawyer said Tuesday he represents 120 accusers who have made allegations of sexual misconduct Sean “Diddy” Combsthe hip-hop mogul awaiting trial on the allegations of sex trafficking.

Houston attorney Tony Buzbee said he expects lawsuits to be filed next month, with most lawsuits expected to be filed in New York and Los Angeles. Buzbee described that the victims were 60 men and 60 women and that 25 were minors at the time of the alleged misconduct. One person claimed he was 9 years old when he was abused, Buzbee said. The allegations relate to a period from 1991 to this year.

“This type of sexual assault, sexual abuse and sexual exploitation should not be happening in the United States or anywhere else. This should never have taken this long. This behavior has left scores of people hurt, scared and scarred,” Buzbee said at a news conference.

After the allegations were announced in Texas, a lawyer for Combs said the performer “cannot address every unfounded accusation in what has become a ruthless media circus.”

“Nevertheless, Mr. Combs strongly and categorically denies as false and defamatory any allegation that he sexually abused anyone, including minors,” attorney Erica Wolff said in a statement. “He looks forward to proving his innocence and vindicating himself in court, where the truth will be determined based on evidence and not speculation.”

Buzbee said more than 3,280 people have contacted his office claiming they were victims of Combs. After examining the allegations, his law firm decided to represent 120 people. Other cases are still being examined. He said some of his clients have spoken to the FBI.

The individuals represented by Buzbee's firm come from more than 25 states, most of them California, New York, Georgia and Florida.

The alleged abuse occurred primarily at parties in New York, California and Florida where individuals were given drug-laced drinks, Buzbee said.

Some of the alleged behavior occurred at auditions, where “often times, particularly young people who wanted to get into the industry, they were coerced into this type of behavior with the promise of becoming a star,” Buzbee said.

Combs, 54, has been incarcerated at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn since pleading not guilty on Sept. 17 Federal allegations that he used his “Power and Prestige” cause female victims in drugged, elaborately staged sexual performances with male sex workers in events known as “Freak Offs.”

Other alleged victims have already submitted Lawsuits against Combs that include allegations of sexual assault.

Combs has pleaded not guilty to conspiracy and sex trafficking charges. His lawyer said he was innocent and would fight to clear his name.

Combs is one of hip-hop's most well-known music managers, producers and performers. He has won three Grammys and collaborated with artists such as Notorious BIG, Mary J. Blige, Usher, Lil Kim, Faith Evans and 112. He founded Bad Boy Records in 1993, the influential fashion brand Sean John, a vodka brand and the television channel Revolt. He sold his share in the latter company in June this year.

Buzbee has also represented women accused NFL quarterback Deshaun Watson of sexual assault and Misconduct.

___

Follow Juan A. Lozano on Twitter: