In the ruling, Judge Clarke emphasized the presumption against retroactivity and noted there was no indication in the legislative history that lawmakers intended the new provisions to apply to events that occurred before the amendment. This means that while Kane can continue her case against Combs, Pierre, and the third man, she cannot pursue the claims against the two companies—Daddy’s House Recordings Inc. and Bad Boy Entertainment Holdings Inc.
Despite the setback, Kane’s legal team vowed to continue pursuing justice. In an emotional statement, Kane remarked that while she had hoped to remain anonymous during the legal process, she was now ready to use her real name to ensure accountability.
Combs and his companies have faced multiple lawsuits in recent years accusing them of sexual assault and misconduct. Kane’s case is among several others targeting Combs, including lawsuits from Liza Gardner and Joi Dickerson-Neal, who allege they were raped by Combs in the 1990s.
Judge Clarke’s ruling on the retroactivity of the 2022 amendment leaves the case open against Combs and the other individuals involved. However, Kane’s decision to use her full name following the court’s earlier denial of her anonymity request signals her determination to move forward with the lawsuit.
