Sean “Diddy” Combs was arrested in Manhattan and is expected to stand before a federal judge in New York following undisclosed criminal charges. The arrest comes after a sex trafficking investigation led federal authorities to search Combs’ lavish residences in Los Angeles and Miami six months ago.
The anticipated unsealing of the indictment was set for Tuesday morning, according to U.S. Attorney Damian Williams. Combs, who has faced lawsuits alleging physical or sexual abuse, denies many of the accusations. His lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, stated outside the courthouse that Combs would plead not guilty and that they would vigorously fight for his release from custody.
Agnifilo mentioned that although he lacked specifics on the indictment, Combs had relocated to New York in preparation for it. Despite the legal challenges, Agnifilo said Combs remained in good spirits and was confident. Once a prominent figure in hip-hop, Combs has encountered a sharp decline in reputation due to a series of allegations that have surfaced over the past year.
In a lawsuit filed by his former girlfriend, Cassie, she accused Combs of physical abuse and rape over several years. The lawsuit was swiftly settled, but later, footage aired by CNN depicted Combs physically assaulting Cassie. Subsequently, Combs expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging his actions as appalling.
Various individuals have come forward with allegations against Combs, including a woman who claims he raped her when she was 17, a music producer who alleges Combs forced him into sexual acts, and April Lampros, who detailed disturbing encounters starting in 1994. Combs and his legal team have refuted many of these accusations.
Despite his legal history, including an acquittal in 2001 in connection to a nightclub shooting and the conviction of his protege Shyne on assault charges, Combs continues to face legal challenges. Correcting earlier reports, Combs is 54 years old, not 58.
