Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ case raises questions about the many observers who might have ignored his alleged crimes

Sean Combs attends an event in Atlanta in August 2023. Paras Griffin/Getty Images Zoe D. Peterson, Indiana University; Mary P. Koss, University of Arizona, and RaeAnn Anderson, University of Missouri-Kansas City The billionaire hip-hop producer Sean Combs was charged in September 2024 with sex trafficking and a range of other offenses – and continues to be hit with lawsuits from alleged victims. Perhaps one of the most stunning aspects of the unfolding case is the large number of people who may have been witnesses to the alleged crimes. Most of these assaults allegedly occurred at crowded social events and parties since at least 2001. Combs’ trial is scheduled to begin in May 2025. This case raises important questions about observers who witness sexual exploitation and how they respond – or stay silent. Sexual exploitation involves using someone sexually for one’s own advantage without their permission – for example, through physical force, threat of harm, misuse of authority or when they are incapacitated from drugs or alcohol. This can encompass acts that are sometimes labeled as sexual harassment, sexual assault or rape. We know from research that many observers do nothing when they witness sexual exploitation. People often do not realize...