Lastest Update: Ex-Gangster to Sue Diddy’s Mother Amid Allegations…. See More

Deon ‘D1’ Best, a former associate of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs and ex-gangster, has announced plans to file a lawsuit against Diddy’s mother, Janice Combs, over alleged business practices related to Bad Boy Entertainment.

This revelation came during an exclusive appearance on DailyMail.com’s investigative podcast, ‘The Trial of Diddy,’ where Best discussed how his publishing rights and those of other artists were allegedly signed over to Janice Combs in what he describes as fraudulent business maneuvers.

The Allegations Against Janice Combs
Best, now 56 and a youth sports coach who has turned away from his past life, claims that Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs used his mother’s name to hide publishing rights and business dealings. According to Best, his company, Finish Line Entertainment, brokered deals in the late 1990s for several albums under Bad Boy Entertainment, including ‘Born Again’ by Christopher ‘Notorious B.I.G.’ Wallace, which reached platinum status. He claims that Diddy’s method of structuring deals led to significant financial and emotional hardship for him and other artists involved.

Details of the Lawsuit
Best has stated his intention to pursue legal action against Janice Combs, highlighting how his publishing rights were allegedly assigned to her name. He explained, “These actions caused financial hardship not only for me but for other artists in the industry. I believe Janice Combs falls under the guidelines of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act.”

Best’s accusations echo those of other artists who have spoken out about Diddy’s business practices. Rapper Mason ‘Ma$e’ Betha, in a viral 2020 outburst, also pointed to Diddy’s mother as being the custodian of various deals. “Your mother’s got the receipts,” Ma$e said, suggesting that significant business dealings were funneled through her.

Background on Deon Best’s Connection with Diddy
Best became friends with Diddy and Notorious B.I.G. in the late 1990s, often acting as a protector during their visits to Los Angeles. According to Best, his presence was especially valued when tensions ran high between Diddy and Death Row Records’ Suge Knight. Best recounted, “Suge is a big guy, but I had a relationship with him that allowed me to say, ‘Ease up,’ and he would respect it.”

Best claims he was with Biggie on the night of his tragic death in March 1997. He remembered warning the rapper to stay close that evening, only for them to become separated as they left the party. Shortly after, Best heard the gunshots that killed Biggie. “I’ve always wondered how he wasn’t with me when we exited,” Best reflected.

Other Allegations Against Diddy

Diddy, currently detained at a Brooklyn jail while awaiting a trial set for May 2025, faces federal charges including sex trafficking and racketeering. Best’s accusations add to a growing list of grievances against the music mogul, whose ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura filed a lawsuit in 2023 accusing him of abuse and coercion.

Best expressed anger when he recalled seeing a 2016 video of Diddy
attacking Cassie at a hotel in Los Angeles. “That video of Cassie broke my heart,” Best said. “I have daughters, sisters. It’s like, ‘You can kick Cassie, but you don’t want to stand up to Suge?’”

Industry Practices and Implications

While it was historically common for record label owners to claim a portion of an artist’s publishing as part of a signing deal, artists have become more vocal about the financial implications of such arrangements. Best’s allegations suggest that Diddy used Janice Combs’ name to facilitate and obscure these deals, depriving artists of future earnings.

The outcome of Best’s planned lawsuit could have far-reaching consequences for Bad Boy Entertainment and the legacy of its founder. As the trial approaches, the music industry will closely watch how these events unfold and what impact they may have on similar business practices.