Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs finds himself under the glare of federal investigation lights in a development that has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. Law enforcement has confirmed that Combs is the subject of a federal investigation, with allegations ranging from sex trafficking to drug and firearm-related offenses.
Since November, several lawsuits against Combs have fueled the investigation’s growth. Federal officials in Manhattan have already interviewed three women and a man, with more interviews scheduled. The interviews involve accusations that include sex trafficking, sexual assault, and involvement in illegal narcotics and firearms distribution.
Federal agents, identified as Homeland Security Investigations, wasted no time in executing search warrants on Monday. The raids targeted Combs’ properties in Los Angeles and Miami, with the warrants issued out of the Southern District of New York.
During the Los Angeles raid, footage captured the music mogul’s sons, Justin and Christian “King” Combs, being handcuffed by authorities. There has been no confirmation regarding whether they were detained or charged.
The specter of an investigation looms large over Combs following public scrutiny triggered by allegations from his former romantic partner, Cassie Ventura. In a lawsuit filed under the New York Adult Survivors Act, Ventura accused Combs of physical and sexual abuse spanning years. The suit was settled on undisclosed terms the day after filing.
Subsequently, three other women have come forward with lawsuits alleging sexual assault by Combs, two of whom claim they were minors at the time of the incidents. Attorney Douglas Wigdor, representing Cassie and Jane Doe, expressed hope that the investigation would hold Combs accountable for his alleged actions.
Combs vehemently denies all allegations of sexual assault, labeling them as “sickening.” Nevertheless, the legal storm continues, with producer Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones also filing a lawsuit in February, alleging sexual harassment, drugging, and threats by Combs during his employment.
Despite Combs’ legal team dismissing Jones’ claims as falsehoods, attorney Tyrone Blackburn, representing Jones and another accuser, said he remains resolute in seeking justice. Blackburn affirmed that the federal investigation would not deter their pursuit of a resolution.
Combs’ legal history, albeit less severe, has drawn attention. In 1999, he pleaded guilty to assaulting a record executive and received anger management counseling. The same year saw him embroiled in the criminal possession of a weapon case linked to a nightclub shooting, where rapper Shyne was ultimately convicted.
Combs has also faced professional repercussions. He stepped down as chairman of media network Revolt, and Hulu shelved plans for a reality series featuring his family.
