Sean “Diddy” Combs, the embattled hip-hop mogul, was arrested in New York City on federal charges related to an ongoing investigation into sex trafficking, according to federal authorities who spoke to CBS.
The arrest took place in Manhattan and follows a series of raids on two of Combs’ properties in Los Angeles and Miami earlier this year.
US Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Damian Williams, confirmed the arrest in a statement, noting that it stemmed from a sealed indictment.
The specifics of the charges have not yet been made public, but they come amid a troubling backdrop of allegations against Combs, ranging from sexual assault to abuse.
Combs’ attorney, Marc Agnifilo, expressed disappointment over the arrest, asserting that his client is an “innocent man.” The musician has faced a barrage of allegations, including claims made by his ex-partner, Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, who recently filed a lawsuit detailing incidents of abuse.
Multiple civil lawsuits have emerged against Combs, alleging serious offenses, including the rape of an underage girl and coercive sexual behavior towards another producer.
The legal troubles began intensifying in November 2023 when Ventura’s lawsuit was filed, soon followed by similar claims from two other women detailing allegations of abuse.
One lawsuit claims Combs choked a woman until she passed out, while another alleges that a 17-year-old was sex trafficked by Combs and others.
In February, allegations resurfaced through a civil suit filed by former producer Rodney Jones Jr., further complicating Combs’ legal standing. Combs has consistently denied all allegations, labeling lawsuits as attempts to exploit his fame for financial gain.
Combs, a prominent figure in the music industry known by various names, including Puff Daddy and P Diddy, has built a successful empire over the last 30 years.
