Sean “Diddy” Combs, the prominent music producer and founder of Bad Boy Records, was arrested by federal agents in Manhattan on Monday night. The arrest came as a result of numerous sexual assault allegations against Combs, although specific details of the charges have not been announced by prosecutors. Damian Williams, the U.S. attorney in Manhattan, stated that the arrest was based on a sealed indictment filed by the Southern District of New York.
Combs’ lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, expressed disappointment with the decision to pursue what he believes is an unjust prosecution. Agnifilo stated that while Combs may be an imperfect person, he is not a criminal.
The 58-year-old music producer had traveled to New York last week in anticipation of these charges being brought against him. Over the past few months, several individuals who once worked or were close to Combs have come forward with allegations of abuse and mistreatment.
One such lawsuit was filed by R&B singer Casandra Ventura (known as “Cassie”), who accused Combs of exploitation and sexual abuse. The lawsuit was settled quickly on undisclosed terms. However, more lawsuits were subsequently filed by others.
In May, leaked footage aired by CNN showed Combs physically assaulting Cassie in a hotel hallway. He later released a video statement expressing his disgust at his own actions.
In February, Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones filed a $30 million lawsuit against Combs alleging forcible touching and attempted touching of intimate areas among other claims.
In March, federal agents raided both Combs’ Los Angeles and Miami mansions as part of an ongoing investigation conducted by the Department of Homeland Security and other law enforcement officials. Aaron Dyer, one of Combs’ attorneys criticized these raids as excessive use of force and maintained that his client is innocent.
This report will be updated with further information regarding this case.
