NEW YORK — Sean “Diddy” Combs was arrested late Monday in New York City, where he faces a sealed criminal indictment, according to prosecutors.
While the specific charges have not yet been disclosed, Combs has recently been accused of sexual assault by multiple women. The U.S. Attorney in Manhattan stated that federal agents conducted the arrest. “We expect to move to unseal the indictment in the morning and will provide further details at that time,” the statement read.
Combs’ defense attorney expressed disappointment over the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s decision to pursue what they believe is an unjust case against him. Additionally, it was noted that Combs had traveled to New York last week in expectation of these charges.
“He is an imperfect person, but he is not a criminal,” the attorney emphasized.
Combs’ arrest occurred in a Manhattan hotel lobby, and he is currently in federal custody. The criminal charges represent a significant and unanticipated downfall for one of the most prominent figures in the history of hip-hop.
The investigation into Combs, 58, became public following a series of simultaneous raids conducted by Homeland Security at his residences in Los Angeles and Miami earlier this year.
Following the raids, his attorney condemned the actions as excessive and described the allegations as unsubstantiated, asserting Combs’ innocence and commitment to clearing his name.
Once celebrated as a key figure in the East Coast-West Coast hip-hop rivalry of the 1990s alongside the Notorious B.I.G., Combs has seen his public persona evolve over the years. However, allegations of misconduct resurfaced in November when his former girlfriend, who was also his protege, filed a lawsuit alleging years of abuse including sexual coercion and violence.
The lawsuit, which was settled shortly after being filed, sparked a cascade of additional accusations against Combs. Notably, the situation escalated when a leaked video surfaced, showing Combs engaging in violent behavior.
In subsequent months, more individuals came forward with accusations against Combs, including claims of sexual assault and coercion spanning decades. Combs has consistently denied these allegations.
As the founder of Bad Boy Records, Combs has been pivotal in shaping the hip-hop landscape over the last thirty years, collaborating with numerous influential artists. However, his various business ventures have faced significant setbacks amid the ongoing allegations. In light of the recent events and the emergence of a leaked video depicting violent behavior, several organizations have severed ties with him, further complicating his already tarnished legacy.
