Federal agents apprehended Sean "Diddy" Combs in Manhattan on Monday evening, acting on a sealed indictment. The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Damian Williams, stated that the indictment would be unsealed the following morning, with further details to be provided at that time.
Combs, aged 54, voluntarily relocated to New York in anticipation of the charges. His attorney, Marc Agnifilo, expressed disappointment with what he termed an "unjust prosecution" by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
This arrest occurs amidst a series of sexual assault allegations against the music mogul. Last week, singer Dawn Richard filed a lawsuit accusing Combs of various offenses, including sexual assault and sex trafficking. Combs has denied these allegations.
Earlier this month, Combs was ordered to pay $100 million in a separate sexual assault lawsuit to Derrick Lee Smith, who alleged an incident from nearly three decades ago. Combs' legal team has indicated they will seek to have this judgment dismissed.
In 2023, R&B vocalist Casandra Ventura sued Combs, accusing him of severe misconduct during their decade-long professional and personal relationship. The case was settled in November 2023 for an undisclosed amount, with Combs strongly refuting the allegations.
Combs, also known as Puff Daddy or P. Diddy, has been a significant figure in the hip-hop industry for decades. He founded Bad Boy Records in 1993, which became a major force in the genre. Throughout his career, Combs has won three Grammy Awards and two MTV Video Music Awards, demonstrating his influence in the music world.
Beyond music, Combs has diversified his portfolio. He launched the clothing line Sean John in 1998 and has been involved in various business ventures, including Ciroc vodka and Revolt TV. As of 2023, his estimated net worth stood at $900 million.
Combs' impact extends to education and activism. In 2016, he opened the Capital Preparatory Harlem Charter School, showcasing his commitment to community development. He has also been involved in political activism, including the "Vote or Die" campaign.
Despite his current legal challenges, Combs' legacy in the entertainment industry is significant. He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2008 and has appeared in several films, including "Monster's Ball" and "Get Him to the Greek."
As the legal proceedings unfold, the music industry and public await further developments in this high-profile case involving one of hip-hop's most prominent figures.
"We are disappointed with the decision to pursue what we believe is an unjust prosecution of Mr Combs by the US Attorney's Office."