Was Justin Bieber a 'VICTIM' of Sean Diddy Combs?

In the wake of the ongoing

Sean Diddy Combs

trial, social media has long been rife with speculation over his past equation with pop star Justin Bieber. However, now multiple sources close to Bieber have spoken up about the viral rumours and allegations of inappropriate behaviour between the two. Speaking to TMZ, Bieber’s inner circle, said that Diddy never sexually or otherwise abused the singer during his teenage years. The clarification comes amid resurfaced clips and commentary that have triggered concern online.In one 2011 appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Diddy raised eyebrows when he joked that Bieber “knows better than to be talking about things that he does with Big Brother Puff on national television.” The comment, which resurfaced online, raised concerns, particularly in light of Diddy’s mounting legal troubles.Another moment from 2009 that also created a stir online, saw Diddy and then-15-year-old Bieber standing beside a car, with Diddy telling him, “As soon as you turn 16, I’m gonna let you rock this car.” Diddy added they couldn’t disclose their plans, calling it a “15-year-old’s dream,” and promised that they would "full crazy" over the next 48 hours.

Despite the tone of these past public moments, sources insist they were “performative” and not reflective of a private relationship between the two. According to the report, Justin was reportedly "not close to Diddy" personally but rather associated with his sons, Quincy and Justin Combs.

In a statement to TMZ, a representative for Bieber addressed the broader controversy, "Although Justin is not among Sean Combs' victims, there are individuals who were genuinely harmed by him. Shifting focus away from this reality detracts from the justice these victims rightfully deserve."The statement comes amid a wider reckoning for Diddy, who faces multiple allegations from individuals claiming abuse and misconduct. Prosecutors allege the singer used his fame and fortune to orchestrate an empire of exploitation, coercing women into abusive sex parties. His lawyers, however, argue that all the sexual acts were consensual, and although he could be violent, he never veered into 'sex trafficking' and 'racketeering'. Combs has pleaded not guilty to racketeering conspiracy; sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion; and transportation to engage in prostitution.Combs’ seven attorneys are led by New York lawyer Marc Agnifilo and also includes Teny Geragos, who has expertise in sexual misconduct cases, and attorney Brian Steel, who represented Young Thug in a lengthy trial before the rapper pleaded guilty to gang, drug and gun charges. Celebrity lawyer Mark Geragos, Teny's father, has advised the team. Defense Attorney Anna Estevao began the cross-examination on Thursday.