Judge Rules Jay-Z’s Accuser Can Stay Anonymous as Legal Battle Intensifies

A New York judge criticizes Jay-Z's lawyer for aggressive tactics while allowing the plaintiff to remain anonymous during the early stages of the lawsuit alleging sexual assault in 2000.

The lawsuit accuses Jay-Z and Sean 'Diddy' Combs of raping a 13-year-old girl during an MTV Video Music Awards after-party in 2000.
Judge Analisa Torres ruled that the plaintiff, identified as Jane Doe, can remain anonymous for now but may need to reveal her identity later if the case proceeds.
The judge criticized Jay-Z's lawyer, Alex Spiro, for filing combative motions with inflammatory language and personal attacks against the plaintiff's attorney, Tony Buzbee.
Jay-Z and Diddy have denied the allegations, with Jay-Z’s legal team highlighting inconsistencies in the plaintiff's account, which she has acknowledged while maintaining her claims.
The case unfolds as Diddy faces additional lawsuits and criminal charges, including sex trafficking, with his trial scheduled for May 2025.