Adeshina v. Combs

Background

Yinka Abosede Adeshina, who resides in Florida and is representing herself, brought state-law claims against Sean Combs and invoked the court’s diversity jurisdiction. In an earlier order dated February 27, 2025, the court allowed Adeshina to proceed without prepaying court fees.

Service of the Complaint

Because Adeshina was allowed to proceed without prepaying fees, the court stated that she was entitled to help from the court and the U.S. Marshals Service in serving Combs. The Clerk of Court was instructed to complete a U.S. Marshals Service Process Receipt and Return form, issue a summons for Combs, and deliver the necessary paperwork to the Marshals Service.

The court explained that the usual rule generally requires service within 90 days after the complaint is filed. Because Adeshina could not arrange service until the court reviewed the complaint and ordered the summons issued, the court extended the service period to 90 days after the summons is issued. If service is not completed within that period, Adeshina should request an extension of time.

Order

Judge Mary Kay Vyskocil ordered the Clerk of Court to issue the summons, complete the service form with Combs’s address, and provide the required documents to the U.S. Marshals Service. The Clerk was also directed to mail an information package to Adeshina. Adeshina must notify the court in writing if her address changes, and the court stated that it may dismiss the action if she fails to do so.