Prosecutors said on Tuesday that Sean "Diddy" Combs engaged in a long-running operation of sex trafficking and racketeering, using his notoriety as one of hip-hop's biggest artists to force women into degrading sexual activities.

In Manhattan federal court, Combs, 54, entered a not guilty plea just hours after the 14-page indictment was made public. Following the music mogul's arrest on Monday, U.S. Magistrate Judge Robyn Tarnofsky refused Combs bail and granted the prosecution's request for extended incarceration prior to trial.

Prosecutors claimed that the rapper and producer transported women and male sex workers across state lines to participate in taped sexual performances known as "Freak Offs," during which the music mogul would watch and masturbate. He did this using his business empire, which included the record label Bad Boy Entertainment.

Combs's attorney, Marc Agnifilo, alluded to the defense's strategy by portraying the sexual activity that the prosecutors claimed was consensual. If Combs is found guilty of the three felonies of sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and transportation for prostitution, he could spend a least of 15 years and a maximum of life in jail.

According to the prosecution, Combs seduced women by offering them money, substances like ecstasy and ketamine, or assurances of a personal relationship or professional support. Then, according to the prosecution, Combs utilized the covert recordings of the sex acts as "collateral" to guarantee the women would keep quiet. He also occasionally brandished firearms to frighten witnesses and victims of abuse.

The number of accused victims who were women was not specified in the indictment. Combs was accused of attacking women with punches, kicks, pulling, and object throws, but there was no clear accusation that he had unwelcome sexual contact with any of them. To try to hide his actions, Combs and his allies allegedly utilized kidnapping and arson in addition to bribes, according to the prosecution.

Combs created Bad Boy Records and is recognized for having assisted in the rise to fame of rappers and R&B singers including Mary J. Blige, Faith Evans, Notorious B.I.G., and Usher in the 1990s and 2000s. Combs was also known during his career as P. Diddy and Puff Daddy.