Fat Joe Hit With $20M Civil RICO Lawsuit Alleging Money Laundering, Recording Sex Acts, PPP Scam

Terrance Dixon, the longtime right-hand man to Fat Joe, has officially filed a $20 million civil RICO lawsuit against the Bronx rapper in federal court, alleging years of exploitation, fraud and abuse under what he calls “The Cartagena Enterprise.”

The complaint, filed Thursday (June 19), accuses Fat Joe of orchestrating a criminal operation involving forced labor, sexual coercion, financial fraud and witness intimidation.

“[Fat Joe] employed persistent verbal abuse, threats of physical violence, erratic and insufficient payment, manipulative control over travel and accommodations, and continuous humiliation,” Dixon claied. “Collectively, these coercive tactics resulted in chronic emotional and psychological distress, profound anxiety, and severe trauma that continue to affect [Dixon] to this day.”

Dixon claims he worked for over 16 years as a hype man, ghostwriter, background vocalist and security detail yet was denied credit, royalties, and compensation for his creative contributions.

According to the lawsuit, Dixon alleges he helped write and perform on several songs, including “Congratulations,” “Ice Cream” and “Money Over B######” but was systematically erased from royalty records and publishing rights.

He says Fat Joe and his team submitted “falsified contracts and backdated split sheets” to BMI and ASCAP to divert royalties and conceal Dixon’s authorship.

The complaint names several of Fat Joe’s close associates as co-defendants, including Pete “Pistol Pete” Torres, Richard “Rich Player” Jospitre and Erica Juliana Moreira.

It also targets corporate entities, such as Sneaker Addict Touring LLC, Slate Inc. and Roc Nation, which Dixon says played a role in concealing his work and facilitating the alleged misconduct.

Dixon accuses the group of violating the Trafficking Victims Protection Act and the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act.

Dixon also alleges unjust enrichment, fraud, money laundering and intentional infliction of emotional distress under New York and Florida law. Among the most disturbing claims are allegations of sexual coercion.

Dixon says he was forced into sex acts under threat of abandonment in foreign countries, often while being monitored or recorded.

He also alleges Fat Joe orchestrated group sex scenarios involving dancers and minors, using psychological manipulation and economic control to maintain dominance.

“[Dixon] was routinely coerced into engaging in sexual acts with women specifically brought by Defendant Cartagena to hotel rooms and private gatherings following performances and studio events,” the lawsuit reads. “Defendant Cartagena frequently arranged and orchestrated these encounters, intentionally creating scenarios designed to reinforce Plaintiff’s complete submission. Defendant Cartagena regularly monitored these encounters closely—frequently remaining in the room to watch, record, or provide explicit direction and commands.”

The lawsuit also claims Fat Joe and his associates inflated Dixon’s reported income to the IRS to mask wage theft and increase his tax liability. Dixon says he was deprived of at least $600,000 in royalties and excluded from future earnings tied to his creative work.

Dixon further alleges that burner social media accounts were used to issue threats and intimidate witnesses. He says Fat Joe and Roc Nation retaliated by filing a “baseless” lawsuit against him and his attorney, Tyrone Blackburn, to silence him.

Fat Joe’s legal team previously filed a defamation suit in April, accusing Dixon and Blackburn of attempting to extort money by making false allegations, including claims of statutory rape and sex trafficking.

Fat Joe has denied all wrongdoing, calling the accusations “completely false” and part of a coordinated smear campaign. Blackburn also represents Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones in a separate civil RICO case against Sean “Diddy” Combs, which helped spark a federal investigation.

Kendrick Lamar Run With 3-Year-Old Turns Into Tender Viral Moment

The Kendrick Lamar and SZA Grand National Tour experience might be over stateside, but the stories are still rolling in.

Lamar, fresh off rocking Ford Field in Detroit alongside SZA, went for a run and made a family’s year. The Compton legend picked up a 3-year old jogging buddy and was unknowingly caught the incident on the Detroit Riverwalk.

READ ALSO: SZA Reveals Her Deepest Fears About Touring

According to WXYZ Detroit, Lanaeziah Brinson took her 3-year-old son Ryian out to the Riverfront on Wednesday (June 18) just to burn off a little energy in the summer sun. The pair had no idea they were about to bump into a rap star.

“They were joking around and racing,” Brinson told WXYZ, recalling the moment her son started running with a stranger. That “stranger” turned out to be none other than Kendrick Lamar. But at the time, nobody knew.

For more than 10 minutes, the man who performed for tens of thousands at a sold-out stadium the night before was just like a regular caring citizen. There were no crazy security detail and no cameras. It was just a moment between a man and a kid, running, laughing and vibing.

“Me and my friend, we didn’t know it was him. I was so focused on [Ryian] cause he was running so fast and I’m like, ‘Be careful, come back!’” Brinson explained, still in disbelief. The full weight of the moment didn’t sink in until they got back in the car.

That’s when Ryian looked at a video of himself with his new “friend” and made the connection. “Mom, that’s that man,” he reportedly said. That man being Kendrick Lamar.

“It’s legendary for my baby,” Brinson said, adding that she plans to save the video for when Ryian gets older and fully understands just how rare a moment like this was.

Now, the Brinson household has been blasting Kendrick’s music with a completely different frame of reference .

Kendrick and SZA now take their show to Europe.

European Tour Dates:

  • July 2: Cologne, Germany @ RheinEnergieSTADION
  • July 4: Frankfurt, Germany @ Deutsche Bank Park
  • July 8: Glasgow, UK @ Hampden Park
  • July 10: Birmingham, UK @ Villa Park
  • July 13: Amsterdam, Netherlands @ Johan Cruijff ArenA
  • July 15: Paris, France @ Paris La Défense Arena
  • July 19: Cardiff, UK @ Principality Stadium
  • July 22: London, UK @ Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
  • July 27: Lisbon, Portugal @ Estadio do Restelo
  • July 30: Barcelona, Spain @ Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys
  • August 2: Rome, Italy @ Stadio Olimpico
  • August 6: Warsaw, Poland @ PGE Narodowy
  • August 9: Stockholm, Sweden @ 3Arena 

Timbaland’s Alleged AI Beat “Theft” Has Producer K Fresh Demanding Answers

The Timbaland drama continues. If you’ve been keeping up, then you already know he’s being accused of stealing a beat from a lesser-known producer named K Fresh.

K Fresh is an online producer who’s been making serious noise on Instagram and other social platforms. So what exactly happened? Timbaland, while promoting an AI company called Suno, pushed a beat that seemed like it was his own. What we didn’t know at first was that it was actually a reworking of another producer’s original track.

The legend got his hand caught in the cookie jar—and here’s where it gets messy. Timbo tried to explain the situation, framing it as if he “sampled” the beat. That explanation came after he got exposed. That kind of backpedaling has left a bad taste in the mouths of people who grew up idolizing him.

Now, K Fresh is speaking out. He’s not being disrespectful, but you can hear the pain and confusion in his voice. Like I said before, Timbaland’s got some serious explaining to do.

Below is what K Fresh had to say in an exclusive interview with Curtis King.

“I’m still having a time processing it,” he admitted. “The 19-year-old me is like, ‘I can’t believe this.’ It’s Timbaland. He’s one of the greatest of all time. There’s a level of excitement that I wanted to have for my music to even reach somebody like that. But then there’s also a bit of frustration, as a grown man. Because it’s like you just saying, my name could’ve went a long way.

“If you liked it that much, a little bit goes a long way for somebody like me. My feet is still on the ground, bro. Like I’m working for everything and I’m not asking for much. I’m conflicted with the things that I feel.”

Honestly, this whole situation is a mess. And it’s a shame. Hopefully, the company—Suno—takes this seriously, because they clearly underestimated the damage they could do. Their AI platform is literally ripping off real producers. They scrape the internet, scoop up already-made beats and pass them off without giving a single ounce of credit. Or money. I doubt they ever imagined Timbaland would use a beat from someone as visible as K Fresh, but here we are.

What makes it even wilder is that Ghostface Killah from the Wu-Tang Clan expressed interest in the beat, through Timbaland. But Timbo made it seem like he was doing homie a favor. Meanwhile, K Fresh revealed in his video that he already has a working relationship with Ghostface. And not once did he hear from Timbaland.

This just keeps getting worse.

At this point, maybe it’s time someone at AllHipHop sits Timbaland down and has a real conversation about what’s going on here. He’s gotta come clean.

There’s got to be a better way to use tech in Hip-Hop. Bring something that’s ethical, honest to the table. Bring us something that doesn’t exploit the very creatives this culture was built on. It’s hard to believe that Hip-Hop icons are turning into the very villains Hip-Hop once fought against.

K Fresh asked a simple question: “Why couldn’t you just tag me?”

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I wonder if Swizz can defend this!

Cardi B’s $50M “Enough” Lawsuit Moves Ahead As New Music Looms

Cardi B will have to defend herself in court after a Texas federal judge ruled that a copyright lawsuit accusing her of stealing the beat for her song “Enough (Miami)” can proceed.

The decision comes nearly a year after producers Joshua Fraustro and Miguel Aguilar—known professionally as Kemika1956—filed the suit claiming Cardi’s 2024 single unlawfully lifted the instrumental from their track “Greasy Frybread.”

The song was featured in the FX series Reservation Dogs and uploaded to YouTube before the release of “Enough.”

The $50 million complaint also names OG Parker and DJ SwanQo, who co-produced “Enough,” along with Atlantic Records and Warner Music Group.

The plaintiffs are seeking damages, a restraining order to halt further distribution, and the destruction of all copies of the allegedly infringing track.

According to court documents reviewed by Bloomberg Law_,_ Cardi B’s legal team attempted to dismiss the case, arguing that the two songs are not substantially similar.

But U.S. District Judge Fred Biery disagreed, writing that “the court finds plaintiffs have alleged sufficient facts to state a claim for copyright infringement.”

The ruling arrives just days before the Bronx rapper is set to drop her new single “Outside” on Friday (June 20), her first solo release of the year.

“Outside” is produced by Charlie Heat and HeyMicki and includes lyrics about her breakup with Offset and rumored romance with NFL star Stefon Diggs.

Cardi B previously teased the track during an Instagram Live session earlier this year. Her sophomore album is reportedly finished but delayed due to pending guest features.

As of June 2025, no title or release date has been confirmed.

Chrisean Rock Claims Blueface Is Taking Drugs In Prison After He Boots Her Out Of His Home

Chrisean Rock accused Blueface of using drugs in prison in an explosive livestream after he kicked her out of his home and claimed she left it in ruins.

On Tuesday (June 18), Blueface posted a video to Instagram showing a disheveled house, implying Chrisean trashed the place before moving out. He followed up with a message: “Chrisean no longer lives here.”

Chrisean fired back during a livestream, denying she left the home in that condition and claiming Blueface was the one spiraling behind bars.

“I need to get rid of this demon,” she said. “And he’s smoking Fetty. Like, he’s getting high.”

She alleged that Blueface “caught drug charges” while incarcerated, which she said extended his sentence from six months to two years.

Chrisean also said she only returned to Blueface’s home to retrieve her belongings after he withheld them from her.

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She claimed the timing of his public accusations was no coincidence, saying he lashed out because she was headed to a streamer’s prom event.

Chrisean Rock Considering Restraining Order Against Blueface

“I think I need to put a restraining order on him,” she said during the livestream. “It got real bad. Like, it gets bad. Y’all forgot? When I did leave him the last time, he came and kidnapped my son from my house. Kicked in my door, took my baby out of Marsh’s arms.”

She also claimed, “he rode me over with a car” while she was six or seven months pregnant.

Just one day earlier, Blueface explained in a jailhouse call that he allowed Chrisean and their son to return because she was homeless. He also claimed she needed to focus on helping their child learn to walk before he turns two.

He also expressed his expectations for her to stay home and focus on parenting.

“Nobody wants a b#### that wants to be out working,” he told her.

Chrisean pushed back, saying she had been the one financially supporting Blueface while he was locked up and accused him of being absent from their son’s life.

“You never came through for your son, and he’s nearly two. NEVER,” she said.

Blueface gave her an ultimatum during the call: “You either gonna follow instructions, or you gonna go be your own f###### person.”

Their relationship has been a carousel of public fallouts, reconciliations and accusations.

Back in April 2025, Blueface also kicked Chrisean out after she confirmed she was seeing someone new.

Chrisean has said she still loves Blueface but admitted she needs to move on from what she described as a controlling and chaotic relationship.

Eminem Stalker Gets Three Decades In Prison

The “stan” accused of terrorizing Eminem has been handed a 30-year prison sentence for breaking into the rapper’s home.

Matthew David Hughes, 32, was convicted of first-degree home invasion and aggravated stalking after a jury found him guilty on May 7 for a 2024 break-in at Eminem’s Clinton Township property.

Hughes received the harsh sentence on Tuesday, June 17, for unlawfully entering the rapper’s home on two different occasions.

In April 2020, he smashed a window with a brick and entered while Eminem was asleep. The rapper testified that Hughes told him he was “there to kill him” before being subdued by security and later arrested.

Hughes pleaded guilty to second-degree home invasion in 2021 and was given probation and credit for time served. But he violated that probation and returned to Eminem’s property in August 2024.

During that second intrusion, Hughes slipped through an unlocked door, stole a bicycle and fled after being spotted by security. He was arrested four days later at a nearby Walmart.

Eminem came face to face with his stalker again during a Michigan courtroom showdown that ended with came face to face with him once again when he testified during the May trial.

The two-day proceeding ended swiftly, with jurors deliberating for less than 30 minutes before delivering the verdict.

The court issued a no-contact order, prohibiting Hughes from communicating with Eminem.

Prosecutors argued that his repeated actions showed a clear pattern of obsession and danger.

The sentencing closes a years-long legal saga that began with the 2020 break-in and escalated with Hughes’ return in 2024 despite prior legal consequences.

Hughes will be eligible for parole after serving a minimum of 18 years in prison.

Slain Battle Rapper Pat Stay Murder Trial Ends With Guilty Verdict After Five Weeks In Court

Adam Drake was convicted of second-degree murder Tuesday (June 17) in the stabbing death of Pat Stay, a revered figure in the battle rap world, following a swift jury decision in the Nova Scotia Supreme Court.

The 12-person jury reached its verdict in less than a day, CBA News reports. The five-week trial centered around the fatal stabbing of the 36-year-old rapper and father of two at the Yacht Club Social in Halifax on September 4, 2022.

Drake, who was initially charged with first-degree murder, faced a downgraded charge before the trial began. Prosecutors leaned heavily on surveillance footage from inside the nightclub. Although the stabbing wasn’t captured on camera, the Crown argued that a process of elimination left Drake as the only possible assailant.

The defense countered that the video lacked clarity and failed to show the actual attack, urging jurors to acquit.

Drake chose not to testify or present any evidence in his own defense.

Pat Stay’s Partner Speaks After The Verdict

The courtroom was emotionally charged throughout the proceedings. After the verdict, Stay’s longtime partner, Malyssa Burns, told reporters that the trial was “The hardest five weeks of my life.”

She added that while the verdict couldn’t bring closure to Pat’s death, “at least we can move forward with knowing that his murderer’s in jail.”

A conviction for second-degree murder in Canada carries a mandatory life sentence. The judge will determine parole eligibility, which can range from 10 to 25 years.

Drake is already serving a life sentence for the 2016 “execution-style” killing of Tyler Keizer. That prior conviction was not disclosed to the jury to preserve the integrity of the trial and was only made public after Tuesday’s verdict.

Sentencing for Drake is expected in the coming weeks.

The battle rap scene responded with an outpouring of tributes to Stay, whose lyrical skill and stage presence earned him international acclaim.

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Angela Simmons Admits Yo Gotti Split Was “Not By Choice”

Angela Simmons confirmed she ended her relationship with Yo Gotti during a revealing conversation on Angie Martinez’s “IRL” podcast, explaining the breakup wasn’t something she wanted but felt was necessary.

“I wouldn’t have chose it, but it was what was best, but I wouldn’t have chose it, no,” Simmons said, calling the decision “not by choice” and making it clear she still holds respect for the Memphis rapper. “Much love and respect to him. He’s doing his thing. I’m happy for him.”

The pair’s relationship, which lasted around two years, had been heavily publicized from the start—fueled by Gotti’s years-long admiration and public pursuit of Simmons before they officially got together.

Martinez brought up how Gotti had previously declared his love for Simmons in his music and social media, asking if he was the one who ended it.

Simmons responded, “I had to make a decision,” but declined to elaborate on what led to the breakup.

“I would just never [share details]. I’m just not that girl…” she said. “Some stuff is just better left unsaid.”

Despite the end of the romance, Simmons said she doesn’t regret being open about their relationship.

“I’m a lover, I love love. I love relationships,” she said, acknowledging that going public with their love story meant people would naturally be invested.

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Angela Simmons & Yo Gotti’s Social Media Posts Sparked Split Speculation

Breakup rumors first surfaced in May 2025 after both Simmons and Gotti posted cryptic messages on Instagram.

Gotti wrote “Lonely in London,” while Simmons shared, “I want what wants me in life. In all areas, what flows FLOWS. What goes GOES.”

Simmons said she’s open to dating again but didn’t hint at any current romantic interests.

Yo Gotti has not publicly addressed the breakup. His recent Instagram posts, however, have been flooded with comments urging him to reconcile with Simmons following her appearance on the podcast.

Stephen A. Smith Admits Dislike For LeBron James: “He Hid Behind His Son”

Stephen A. Smith didn’t hold back when asked about his relationship with LeBron James during a new interview, revealing their mutual disdain.

The veteran sports broadcaster addressed his issues in a Rolling Stone interview released Tuesday (June 18).

“I don’t like him, and he don’t like me,” he said while accusing the NBA star of using his son as a shield in a personal dispute.

The long-simmering tension between the ESPN personality and the four-time NBA champion hit a boiling point after a courtside confrontation in March 2025.

LeBron confronted Smith over remarks made about his son, Bronny James, which Smith insists were misinterpreted.

“He hid behind his son [Bronny James], tried to make something out of nothing, as if I was dogging his son, which I was not,” Smith said. “The real issue was we don’t like each other. And he used that as an excuse to confront me. I got it.”

Despite the personal friction, Smith maintained that his coverage of LeBron remains professional.

“We’re never gonna like each other,” he added. “It’s not gonna stop me from doing my job. He’ll be treated just like any other player I cover. Nobody is going to get me to compromise my professional integrity. I don’t have to like you to be fair to you.”

Smith also acknowledged LeBron’s legacy on the court.

“He’s one of the greatest players who’s ever lived,” he said. “I’m going to show him that respect, and I’m going to cover him objectively. When he does great, I’m gonna applaud. When he doesn’t do great, I’m not gonna applaud.”

LeBron addressed the incident publicly for the first time during a March appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, explaining that Smith’s commentary crossed a line.

“Never would I ever not allow people who talk about the sport to criticize players about what they do on the court. That is your job,” LeBron said. “When you take it and get personal with it, it’s my job not only to protect my damn household but protect the players.”

Pusha T Warns Travis Scott: “Stay Out Of Rappers’ Business”

Pusha T called out Travis Scott in a new interview, urging him to “stay out of rappers’ business,” after taking aim at Scott on the new Clipse track “So Be It.”

During an Apple Music interview with Ebro Darden previewed Wednesday night (June 18), Push slammed the Houston artist for interrupting a Clipse session in Paris with Pharrell Williams.

“I just thought it was disrespectful,” Pusha said, referring to Scott showing up uninvited. “We don’t even want you here, to be honest. Like, we’re not here to hobnob with any rappers, and I personally don’t like rappers who don’t rap. Like, I don’t want to hear that.”

The Virginia rapper continued to accuse Scott of being disloyal and opportunistic, especially when it comes to rap beefs that don’t involve him directly.

“He’ll do it with his mentor, Ye,” Pusha continued. “He was even instrumental in the whole beef now; the ‘Like That’ verse, egging that on. I don’t want nobody who don’t rap to egg nothing on. You don’t rap. Stay out of rappers’ business. You, specifically, stay out of rappers’ business. Don’t do that.”

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The “Like That” reference points to Scott encouraging Future and Metro Boomin to play the track at Rolling Loud, a song that ignited the battle between Kendrick Lamar and Drake.

@mannymedina117 Travis a real one for that 😂🔥 #rollingloudcali #travisscott #Future #MetroBoomin #wedonttrustyou #likethat ♬ original sound – Manny Med!na

Pusha also brought up “Sicko Mode,” where Drake took shots at Kanye West—Scott’s mentor—while Scott still appeared on the track.

Pusha T Call Out Travis Scott Over “Lack Of Loyalty”

In a GQ interview, Pusha detailed how Scott played his Utopia album for them in Paris but conveniently skipped over Drake’s diss verse on “Meltdown.” That move didn’t sit well with Pusha.

“That lack of loyalty. Travis really has that,” he said. “To me, that really was just like… he’s a w####. He’s a w####.”

Pusha argued that Travis Scott has a habit of attaching himself to whatever’s trending, regardless of loyalty or history.

“He’s done this a lot,” Pusha T stated, adding, “He don’t have no picks, no loyalty to nobody. He’ll jump around whatever he feels is hot or cling onto whatever he feels is hot. But you can play those games with those people… We’re not in your mix. Keep your mix over there.”

Drake Reveals Shocking Seven-Figure Gambling Losses; Still Has $800K On Game Six

Drake revealed that he has lost over $8 million in gambling this month and still has $800,000 riding on the NBA Finals despite his losing streak.

Drake dropped a jaw-dropping update on his gambling habits, revealing he’s lost more than $8 million this month alone while still betting big on the NBA Finals.

In an Instagram Story Tuesday (June 18), the Grammy-winning rapper confessed he’s placed nearly $125 million in wagers over the past month, including a brutal $6 million hit on Fortnite bets.

“Gotta share the other side of gambling,” he wrote. “Losses are so fried right now. I hope I can post a big win for you all soon cause I’m the only one that has never seen a max these guys max once a week.”

Instagram/Drake

The post offered a rare glimpse into the downside of Drake’s high-stakes gambling lifestyle, which has become a staple of his public image thanks to his partnership with crypto betting platform Stake.

He frequently livestreams his bets and promotes the site to his massive following.

Despite the heavy losses, Drake isn’t slowing down. He’s got $800,000 riding on Game 6 of the 2025 NBA Finals, backing the Oklahoma City Thunder to close out the series against the Indiana Pacers.

He wagered $600,000 on the Thunder to win outright and another $200,000 on them winning by a 6–10 point margin. If both bets hit, he stands to collect around $1.7 million.

He shared the bets on Instagram, throwing his support behind fellow Canadian and Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, writing, “check that box.”

Drake’s betting history has long been a topic of conversation, with many pointing to the so-called “Drake Curse” — a running joke that teams or athletes he supports often lose. 

Audio Of Cassie Ventura Threatening Escort Over Leaked “Freak-Off” Tape Released To Public

Cassie Ventura unleashed a furious tirade in a 2014 audio recording released to the public Wednesday (June 18).

The audio, originally played in open court Thursday (May 16) during Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial, features Ventura threatening to kill a man she believed had a “freak-off” sex tape involving her.

The man, identified in court as Sujit, was the target of Ventura’s rage in the clip submitted by Combs’ defense team as evidence.

In the recording, Ventura is heard saying, “It’s my f###### life and I’ll kill you. If you don’t show me right now, I will kill you, and I will hide you, and I will cut you up and put you in the f###### dirt.”

She continued, “I’m gonna kill you, and then [Diddy] ‘s gonna kill you again.”

“I will f###### kill you. I’ve never killed anyone in my life. I’m going to f### you up. It’s not going to be blood on my hands. Someone else is going to do it. I’m not playing with you, Sujit. Tell me.”

The defense argued the audio shows Ventura was not always under Combs’ control, suggesting she could be aggressive when it came to protecting her image.

Courtroom observers said jurors appeared stunned as the audio played, hearing Ventura’s voice deliver the threats directly.

Cassie Ventura Testified Diddy Used Tapes As Leverage

Ventura previously testified that Combs used sex tapes as leverage to keep her in line, claiming he threatened to release footage of her with male escorts if she didn’t comply with his demands.

She said she felt “trapped,” “embarrassed,” and “humiliated” by the constant fear of public exposure.

Ventura said Combs pressured her to confront Sujit, who she believed had a copy of one of the tapes. She testified that she felt “sick” and under “pressure” to stop the footage from surfacing. According to her, Combs coached her on how to approach Sujit.

She also claimed Combs would show the videos to others, deepening her feelings of shame and helplessness.

Cassie Ventura said the threat of the tapes being released was a major reason she stayed in the relationship despite ongoing abuse.

The trial is nearing a critical point. On Wednesday (June 18), the judge signaled that jury instructions are being prepared, with deliberations likely to begin next week.

Prosecutors are expected to rest their case by Monday (June 23), with the defense scheduled to present its arguments over the following five days.

Diddy’s Ex-Publicist Admits He Ignored Red Flags

Diddy was called out by his former publicist this week. Rob Shuter publicly reflected on his time working with the mogul amid ongoing allegations of rape, sex trafficking and abuse.

Shuter, who represented Diddy in the early 2000s, penned a personal essay for The Hollywood Reporter, grappling with the moral weight of his past proximity to the embattled music executive.

“With Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs facing a cascade of allegations—including rape, sexual assault, sex trafficking and physical abuse—all of which he has denied, I’m left with a question I can no longer avoid: What’s more damning? Not knowing? Or not wanting to know?” he wrote.

The former PR strategist, now the host of the “Naughty But Nice” podcast, admitted that he never witnessed any of the alleged misconduct but questioned whether his ambition had blinded him to the warning signs.

“When I say I didn’t see the alleged behavior, I mean it,” Shuter said. “But I also understand the ways I may have refused to. That refusal didn’t come from malice. It came from ambition. From awe. From the seductive hum of being needed by someone the world adored. It’s astonishing what we’ll fail to see when fame is in the room.”

Shuter described his role during that time as being laser-focused on building Combs’s public image, launching brands and securing magazine covers.

But in hindsight, he said, “What I was actually doing was managing a mirage. And like so many others in the entertainment ecosystem—agents, producers, stylists, executives, managers—I learned to look away.”

Shuter concluded his piece with the hope that the legal process reveals the whole truth. Diddy has denied all allegations against him, which include multiple lawsuits and a federal investigation.

Diddy is currently on trial for one count of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion and two counts of transporting individuals across state lines for prostitution.

He has denied all allegations.

Ice Cube To Honor Basketball Legend Jalen Rose With Prestigious Hall Of Fame Award

Jalen Rose will receive the 2025 Ice Cube Impact Award at the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts, in September for his work in education and community development.

Ice Cube, the Hip-Hop icon and co-founder of the BIG3 basketball league, selected Rose for the honor, citing his dedication to uplifting Detroit youth through academics and athletics.

“Throughout his entire career, Jalen has consistently been a force for good,” Ice Cube said. “Not only does he give back to his communities through fundraising, education, and, most importantly, through basketball, but he leads by example, championing the exact values this award was created to celebrate.”

Rose, a former NBA player and current television analyst, founded the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy in 2011. The tuition-free public charter high school serves Detroit students and focuses on college readiness.

The school offers AP classes, dual enrollment, college tours and summer programs. Rose remains active as president of the board and is currently leading a $20 million capital campaign to expand the school.

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“It’s truly an honor to be recognized by the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame with the Ice Cube Impact Award,” Rose said. “Cube is family, and we share an unwavering dedication to giving back to the communities that raised us. Basketball created opportunities for us in different ways and has allowed both of us to make a lasting impact beyond the court. I’m grateful for this recognition and proud to be celebrated in the Hall’s museum.”

In addition to his work in education, Rose serves on the board of the National Basketball Players Association Foundation and partners with New Era Detroit, a local group focused on community safety and outreach.

He also established a scholarship endowment at the University of Michigan, his alma mater.

The Ice Cube Impact Award was launched in 2024 to honor individuals using basketball to drive meaningful change.

Ice Cube received the inaugural award for his role in creating the BIG3 league, which showcases professional 3-on-3 basketball and promotes diversity and opportunity in the sport.

John L. Doleva, president and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, praised the collaboration.

“Ice Cube’s influence goes way beyond entertainment—he’s a cultural icon who’s using his platform to uplift communities through education and philanthropy,” Doleva said.

The award will be presented during Enshrinement Weekend on Saturday, September 6.

EXCLUSIVE: Diddy Trial Coming Into Home Strech – Judge Gives Instruction For Deliberations

Judge Arun Subramanian laid out strict instructions for how prosecutors and defense attorneys must prepare for jury deliberations in Diddy’s federal racketeering and sex trafficking trial.

The judge directed both legal teams to finalize all admitted evidence—both digital and physical—and ensure it was properly organized and accessible to the jurors.

Prosecutors are expected to rest their case by Monday (June 23), with the defense planning to present its side over the following five days before closing arguments begin.

Subramanian ordered the government to provide a laptop containing only electronic exhibits that have been officially admitted into evidence.

That laptop must be shared with the defense by Monday (June 23), and both sides must confirm on the record that it includes nothing beyond what has been accepted into the trial. Additional digital exhibits may be added until the close of evidence.

For physical items, the government must compile and label all admitted materials and share the list with the defense. Jurors will be allowed to review noncontraband items in the jury room upon request.

Any contraband, such as illegal substances or weapons, will remain in the courtroom for supervised viewing.

The judge also instructed both sides to collaborate on a complete exhibit list, including descriptions of each item, to assist the jury during deliberations.

In anticipation of possible transcript requests from the jury, Subramanian told attorneys to begin reviewing and redacting witness testimony. The priority is on witnesses most likely to be referenced by jurors.

If the jury requests transcript portions that haven’t been reviewed, both sides must act promptly to agree on any necessary redactions.

The trial, which began in late May, entered its 26th on Wednesday (June 18).

Diddy faces five federal charges: one count of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, and two counts of transporting individuals across state lines for prostitution. He has denied all allegations.

A verdict is expected before Thursday (July 4).

Historic First: Donald Trump Banned From NAACP Convention

President Donald Trump will not receive an invitation to the NAACP’s 2025 national convention, marking the first time in the civil rights group’s 116-year history that a sitting U.S. president has been left off the guest list.

The NAACP confirmed the decision Tuesday (June 17), citing Donald Trump’s record on civil rights, democracy and executive actions as incompatible with the organization’s values. Vice President JD Vance was also excluded from the invitation list.

“Donald Trump is attacking our democracy and our civil rights. He believes more in the fascist playbook than in the U.S. Constitution. This playbook is radical and un-American,” NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson said in a statement.

The group’s national convention has historically welcomed every sitting president since its founding in 1909. Past attendees have included Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Ronald Reagan.

Even presidents who clashed with the NAACP’s mission were still extended the courtesy of an invitation.

But Johnson said the organization could not ignore what he described as Trump’s repeated violations of democratic norms and civil liberties.

“The president has signed unconstitutional executive orders to oppress voters and undo federal civil rights protections; he has illegally turned the military on our communities, and he continually undermines every pillar of our democracy to make himself more powerful and to personally benefit from the U.S. government,” Johnson added.

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The NAACP stated that the convention is designed to be a platform for individuals who support multiracial democracy and constitutional rights.

Johnson emphasized that the group would not compromise those principles for the sake of political tradition.

The White House responded to the decision by calling it divisive. In a statement, officials said Trump remains focused on “uniting the country and improving the economy.”

The 2025 NAACP National Convention is scheduled to take place in Las Vegas.

Sheriff Wayne Ivey Tells Lizzo Her Opinion Meant “Exactly Zero” Over Florida Protest Warning

Lizzo was shocked when Sheriff Wayne Ivey didn’t hold back when he warned violent protesters in Brevard County they’d be met with lethal force during the “No Kings” demonstrations on Saturday (June 14), declaring, “We will kill you graveyard dead. We’re not going to play.”

The Brevard County sheriff’s blunt warning was aimed at anyone who might attack deputies or pose a threat to public safety during the nationwide protests. But Lizzo didn’t take it that way.

“I just watched a video of law enforcement threatening to kill anyone who exercises their First Amendment right to protest, and I’ve never seen something more unconstitutional in my life,” Lizzo said in a video posted to social media. “It’s actually appalling.”

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Sheriff Ivey fired back at the Grammy Award-winning singer in a statement to Fox News Digital, dismissing her criticism and questioning her understanding of his remarks.

“Lizzo who?” Ivey said. “Until earlier tonight, I had never heard of her. So what she thinks matters exactly zero to me. She clearly didn’t listen to what was actually said during the press conference, as is evidenced by how inaccurate her quote is.”

Ivey clarified that his warning was never directed at peaceful demonstrators and insisted he supports lawful protest.

“At no time were people peacefully exercising their First Amendment rights [ever] threatened, as what was actually said was that peaceful protests are part of our democracy, and we will provide a safe environment for peaceful protest to take place,” he said. “My warnings were directed at violent protesters whose actions would put citizens and law enforcement officers’ lives at risk.”

Despite the tension, the protests in Brevard County remained peaceful. No arrests were made locally and only three arrests occurred across Central Florida, all in Ocala.

Juneteenth Reflections On Unity, Trust & Pure Black Love

“Well, it seems to be a cycle. We were freed, we gained some things. Then we had the area of turmoil with Dr. King and wanting more things. We will gain some things, but then we’ve got the police brutality, the KKK, the all the really rough things that have come again. And this thing is making us realize that we are all in the same boat.” Dr. Opal Lee, The Mother Of Juneteenth

The other day, I did something different. I went for a run…in the rain…on purpose.

Now, I’m not usually the type to romanticize running in “bad weather.” Sometimes I do it just to test my mettle, but recently I have not been on that type of time. In this instance, it was about testing something I believed in.

I had just bought a hoodie from Actively Black, a brand I’d been watching for a while. They don’t just make clothes, they represent us in my view. I’d seen the work they do outside of apparel, empowering Black communities, amplifying Black voices and putting real meaning behind Black-owned. The hoodie wasn’t cheap like my others ones either. But when it came in the mail, I felt like I got exactly what I paid for. It was top quality.

So I laced up, threw on the hoodie and hit the street for a three-mile run in the pouring rain. The hoodie held up, but something even more powerful happened halfway through.

As I ran, I encountered a young kid, a young African-American boy. I’d guess he was about 12 or 13. He signaled to me. I had my headphones in, so I couldn’t hear what he said. He held up a small sign I couldn’t make out. It was almost like he had yellow writing on white paper. I stopped, pulled my earbuds out to speak to him.

He looked at me smiling innocently and said, “Do you want a water?” Now, I don’t run with money. So I told him I didn’t have anything on me. If I had it, I would have supported. His response?

“It’s all good. Take it anyway.”

That hit me. Hard.

Here I was, out here running in a hoodie made by a Black-owned company that I intentionally supported, and this young Black boy was out here supporting me in this run. Honestly, I’m not certain he was even selling water. He might have been giving them away to people as they walked by.

It stopped me in my tracks and my brain started scrambling inside my skull. That one small moment felt like what Juneteenth is supposed to mean.

It’s not just about honoring our ancestors or marking the day the Black people in Galveston, Texas found out slavery had ended (two-and-a-half years after it was declared illegal). It’s also about how we treat each other and support each other right now. It’s about what we do with our freedom. It’s about creating a culture where we uplift, support and look out for one another.

I told the kid I’d come back after my run and give him some money for his water. Little did he know, I was about to give him some real money. After I finished running, I went straight to the ATM. But when I drove back, he was gone. And I was a little upset about that. I really wanted to bless him for being such a good kid. Not just because he gave me water. This kid gave me hope. Real talk.

Then my mind started spiraling. What if he got scared I was coming back with bad intentions? What if his parents pulled him in? What if I couldn’t even fully trust the water at first? We’re so used to bracing for the worst, having no trust in each other that sometimes we can fall into a cultural spiral.

That exchange was pure. He helped me. I was wearing a hoodie that represented us. And I was out there trying to do better, train harder and level up.

Freedom without unity is hollow and largely superficial.

On this Juneteenth, we have to remember that our power isn’t just in our past. It’s in how we move forward. How we treat each other. How we build each other up, even in the little things. Especially in the little things. Smile. Say “Hi.” Or give water.

Support each other. Trust each other. Look out for one another.

That’s the real celebration.

Epilogue: Much love and respect to Dr. Opal Lee for pushing Juneteenth into being a federal holiday.

Chuck Jigsaw Creekmur and Dr. Opal Lee, the Mother of Juneteenth
Chuck Jigsaw Creekmur and Dr. Opal Lee, the Mother of Juneteenth

Dr. Umar Says His School Was About To Open, However There’s A Big “But”

Dr. Umar Johnson, psychologist and self‑styled “Prince of Pan‑Afrikanism,” has weathered a whirlwind of controversy. However, his Frederick Douglass & Marcus Garvey Academy (FDMG) just suffered another setback. This blow could redefine his legacy and that isn’t good. On June 14, he alleges vandals struck the interior of the school’s building, smashing through a 5,000‑book library. They also reportedly sabotaged the cultural artifacts and educational supplies, though the structure remains.

Dr. Umar has been pushing this school for well over a decade. At first, he announced plans to convert a former Saint Paul’s College campus into FDMG. He was going to launch in 2026, but in Wilmington, Delaware. He was going to take the Moyer Academy and make it the FDMG.

Well, this is sad. Rev. Maurice J. Moyer (August 8, 1918 – March 6, 2012) was a Civil Rights legend, who marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He started Delaware’s first black Presbyterian church. Now, it feels like his legacy is wrapped up in this.

Dr. Umar needs to follow in the footsteps of Rev. Moyer. In 2023, he blamed “ninjas” and asked the local community for patience and financial support. They have done that over the years, but at this point, people have to wonder where the money went. When you look at the video below, there’s compelling information and evidence to support this is real. Check it.

Beyond the latest setback, there’s a pattern. Delawareblack.com is heavy on the case. Check them out.

Skeptics are winning right now. Platforms like RationalWiki say Dr. Umar is full of it and they have a whole page devoted to him. With years of delay, they have plenty of ammo as they continue to lick off shots. So does Dr. Umar Johnson come out of this as a visionary and educator or will it all be a big grift?

Bad Bunny Takes On ICE After Puerto Rico Raids

Bad Bunny called out U.S. immigration agents after allegedly witnessing what appeared to be an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation in Puerto Rico, posting a video on Instagram that showed people being detained in the street.

The Puerto Rican Hip-Hop artist recorded the scene from inside a vehicle and captioned the clip simply, “ice.”

In the footage, he narrates in Spanish, “Look, those m############ are in these cars, RAV-4s. They’re here in Pontezuela. Sons of b######, instead of leaving the people alone and working there.”

The video surfaced just days after ICE raids in Los Angeles triggered protests across the city. Demonstrators gathered in response to federal agents targeting multiple sites to detain individuals suspected of being in the country without legal documentation.

Several high-profile artists have spoken out against the raids, including Olivia Rodrigo, Finneas, Kehlani, Renée Rapp, Billie Joe Armstrong and Tyler, The Creator, joining a growing chorus of celebrities condemning the federal agency’s actions.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has not commented on the video posted by Bad Bunny or confirmed any ICE activity in Puerto Rico on the date in question.