Jarren Mitchelle v. Sean Combs et al

In 2015, Jarren Mitchelle, a 23-year-old aspiring rapper and singer, was gaining momentum in his music career and secured an opportunity to perform as an opener for a popular artist at QC’s 20/20 nightclub in Southeast Los Angeles. Sean Combs attended the event, as his record company, Bad Boy Records, had an interest in the show and provided hundreds of bottles of Ciroc vodka. Before Mitchelle’s performance, a long-time associate of Combs informed him that Combs had heard of his talent, would watch his performance, and, if impressed, would discuss a record deal with Bad Boy Records and studio time with Combs. Mitchelle performed well and attended the after-party in the VIP section of the club, which had breakout rooms and was attended by other well-known artists using drugs. The section contained Ciroc vodka, marijuana, cocaine, and ecstasy, provided by Combs and Bad Boy Records. An associate of Combs handed Mitchelle a Ciroc-based drink, said to be from Combs, after which he quickly felt lightheaded, realized he had been drugged, and lost consciousness. While drifting in and out of consciousness, Mitchelle observed Combs and his entourage engaging in group sexual activity with attendees who appeared drugged, unconscious, or paid escorts, mostly men from Combs’ entourage. Upon regaining consciousness from a physical jolt, Mitchelle found Combs groping his crotch, his pants removed, and his penis wet, suggesting Combs had performed oral sex on him. When Mitchelle tried to resist, Combs’ security team intervened, and Combs threatened to contact his manager and ruin his music career if he did not comply. Fearing for his safety and outnumbered, Mitchelle pretended to comply. Combs ordered him to have sex with an unknown woman while Combs watched, but Mitchelle made an excuse, requesting water and a restroom break. Combs allowed his security to let Mitchelle go to the restroom, where he escaped the venue, reached his car, and drove away. The assault caused severe emotional and psychological trauma, financial harm, and led Mitchelle to abandon his music career aspirations for years due to fear of industry repercussions.

Past, present, and future general and special damages, including lost earnings and economic damages; statutory damages; costs of suit; interest as allowed by law; punitive or exemplary damages; attorney’s fees pursuant to Civil Code sections 51.9(b), 52, 52.4; and other relief deemed just by the court.