Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs was taken into custody on Monday, as confirmed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in New York City. The arrest occurred at the Park Hyatt hotel on West 57th Street, where he had been staying for several weeks. According to sources, the arrest came as a surprise to Combs.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams indicated that the arrest was carried out by federal agents based on a sealed indictment from the Southern District of New York. Details about the charges are expected to be revealed when the indictment is unsealed.
Combs’ lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, expressed his dismay, stating that Combs, 54, had been compliant with the investigation and had relocated to New York last week in preparation for the charges. Agnifilo emphasized Combs’ positive contributions and denied criminal behavior, asserting that the allegations were from individuals seeking financial gain.
The exact charges against Combs are not yet known, but he has recently faced multiple lawsuits alleging sexual assault and misconduct. One notable case involved former girlfriend Casandra Ventura, who had previously settled a lawsuit against Combs. Other individuals, including Dawn Richard, have also accused him of various forms of abuse, which Combs has strongly denied.
Federal investigators have conducted searches at Combs’ properties in Miami and Los Angeles and have looked into accusations of sex trafficking and drug-related crimes. Combs’ arrest marks a significant development in these ongoing investigations.
In related news, following the release of hotel video showing Combs’ violent behavior, Howard University severed ties with him, including revoking an honorary degree and discontinuing a scholarship program named in his honor. Combs has also put his Los Angeles home up for sale for $61.5 million.