Sean “Diddy” Combs was arrested in New York City on Monday amidst mounting legal challenges, including a federal investigation into human trafficking, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed.
The music mogul was taken into federal custody following a grand jury indictment, though the specific charges have not yet been disclosed.
In response to the arrest, Marc Agnifilo, Combs’ attorney, issued a statement: “We are disappointed that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has chosen to pursue what we believe is an unjust prosecution of Mr. Combs. Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs is a music icon, self-made entrepreneur, and philanthropist who has spent decades building an empire and supporting the Black community. While not perfect, he is no criminal. Mr. Combs has been cooperative throughout the investigation and voluntarily relocated to New York in anticipation of these charges. We ask that the public reserve judgment until all facts are presented. These are the actions of an innocent man who looks forward to clearing his name.”
Combs has recently faced other serious legal issues, including a new lawsuit filed last week by his former bandmate Dawn Richard. Her lawsuit alleges battery, false imprisonment, withholding of royalties, and theft of her copyrighted material. This case adds to a growing list of complaints against Combs, with at least eight women, including Liza Gardner, Joi Dickerson-Neal, and Crystal McKinney, filing similar claims. These lawsuits followed a settlement with his former girlfriend, Casandra Ventura, who had accused Combs of years of physical and sexual abuse. Combs has consistently denied all allegations, suggesting his accusers are seeking financial gain.
In March, federal law enforcement raided several of Combs’ properties as part of the human trafficking investigation. According to TMZ, Homeland Security agents arrested Combs late Monday at a midtown Manhattan hotel. He was reportedly taken to the FBI’s Manhattan field office. The arrest was initially scheduled for Tuesday, but authorities expedited the operation due to unforeseen developments.
