Diddy’s friends may be waiting to speak out on the rap mogul’s recent scandal until more information comes out.
Sean “Diddy” Combs was arrested and charged with racketeering, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution in September. He is being held in the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, where he has been repeatedly denied bail. The rapper has pled noy guilty to all charges and denies all wrongdoing.
Houston lawyer Tony Buzbee said he is representing 120 accusers who are planning to sue Diddy for allegedly exploiting and sexually abusing them. He also revealed during a press conference that Diddy had a “long” list of accomplices, some of which are celebrities with “household names.”
As news about Diddy’s alleged crimes unfolds, videos are resurfacing of celebrities attending some of his infamous parties. Big names like Ashton Kutcher, Jennifer Lopez, Will Smith and others have been known to party with Diddy in the past, though they have not been accused of anything.
Mayah Riaz, celebrity public relations manager, said public figures who are connected with Diddy but not guilty may be trying to distance themselves from the scandal.
“Diddy is facing sexual misconduct from 120 accusers, and I believe this number will grow as more accusers come forward,” Riaz said.
“As he has also been denied bail, this is a catastrophic reputational challenge not just for himself but also to public figures associated with him, such as Ashton Kutcher and Jennifer Lopez.”
She said the PR teams of those celebrities are likely working overtime to make sure they are protected from the current scandal. If Riaz was working for one of Diddy’s friends, she said she’d employ a Distance and Silence Strategy.
“I would distance them from the story, which in this case can appear difficult due to photographs of them with Diddy. Then I would advise them to stay silent when asked about the scandal at events or when in public.”
Riaz continued: “I certainly would not advise them to jump into defense not condemnation too quickly as this could backfire if more facts emerge.”
She did say it may be wise for some to get ahead of the issue and release a statement before being questioned. The statement should be neutral and carefully worded, with a strong stance against any kind of sexual abuse or misconduct.
They should be prepared for public scrutiny, expecting tough questions when they leave the house. She said staying calm and sympathizing with the victims is always the best course of action.