Sean “Diddy” Combs, one of the biggest names in the music industry, was arrested by federal agents in New York City on Monday night.
The arrest was made by agents from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), multiple sources told ABC News.
Combs was taken into custody after a federal grand jury in Manhattan returned an indictment against him.
The details of the charges remain sealed, and no further information on the allegations has been provided by officials at this time.
Marc Agnifilo, Combs’ lawyer, responded to the arrest, calling it an unjust prosecution by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
“We are disappointed with the decision to pursue what we believe is an unjust prosecution of Mr. Combs,” Agnifilo said in a statement.
He highlighted Combs’ accomplishments, describing him as a self-made entrepreneur, loving father, and philanthropist.
Agnifilo defended his client’s character, saying, “He is an imperfect person, but he is not a criminal.”
The lawyer revealed that Combs had been cooperative with the investigation and had voluntarily relocated to New York last week, anticipating the charges.
Agnifilo urged the public not to jump to conclusions, stating, “Please reserve your judgment until you have all the facts.”
He added that Combs was confident that he would clear his name in court.
The arrest comes after a year-long investigation into Combs, following allegations made by his former longtime girlfriend, Cassie Ventura.
Ventura had filed a civil lawsuit accusing Combs of misconduct, setting off a legal battle that has escalated over the past year.
At least 10 additional lawsuits have since been filed against Combs, but he has denied all the allegations.
The legal troubles surrounding Combs intensified earlier this year when his Los Angeles and Miami homes were raided by federal agents.
Back in March, federal agents executed court-authorized searches at Combs’ properties in Los Angeles and Miami.
The raids were part of a federal investigation into allegations of sex trafficking against Combs, according to law enforcement sources.
During the raids, agents from Homeland Security Investigations seized several electronic devices.
The search was described as part of an “ongoing investigation” by a spokesperson from Homeland Security Investigations.
Prosecutors from the Southern District of New York are believed to be leading the investigation into Combs.
Authorities have not publicly disclosed the nature of the charges or the evidence gathered during the investigation.
Despite the mounting legal challenges, Combs has consistently denied all allegations of sexual misconduct.
The allegations have shaken the entertainment industry, where Combs has long been a towering figure.
Sean “Diddy” Combs, born Sean John Combs, is a Grammy-winning music producer, rapper, and entrepreneur.
He is the founder of Bad Boy Records, a label that played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of major artists like The Notorious B.I.G., Faith Evans, and Mase.
Beyond his music career, Combs is also a successful businessman, with ventures in fashion, liquor, and television.
His empire includes the Sean John clothing line and a lucrative partnership with Cîroc Vodka.
Combs has always projected a larger-than-life image, often embodying the essence of success and wealth in hip-hop culture.
In recent years, Combs has also been an outspoken advocate for the Black community and a major philanthropist.
He has donated millions of dollars to educational causes and has funded several charter schools in underserved communities.
Despite these achievements, his personal life has faced increased scrutiny since Ventura’s lawsuit.
The lawsuit, filed in November last year, accused Combs of years of abuse during their relationship.
Ventura’s allegations triggered a series of other women coming forward with similar claims, resulting in a flood of civil lawsuits.
