Federal agents from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security have initiated an investigation into hip-hop star Sean “Diddy” Combs, conducting searches at his properties located in Los Angeles and the Miami area. This inquiry, led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents based in New York, stems from a lawsuit filed against Combs by a former girlfriend in federal court in November. The lawsuit accuses him of engaging in sex trafficking, prompting federal authorities to take action.
Combs, aged 54, has vehemently denied the accusations, asserting his innocence and describing the allegations as an attempt by his accusers to seek financial gain. His lawyer based in New York, Ben Brafman, has not responded to requests for comment from Reuters.
Television broadcasts in Los Angeles aired aerial footage showing HSI agents and other law enforcement officials conducting raids at Combs’ luxurious estate in the Holmby Hills neighborhood. Several individuals were reportedly detained outside the property, although it remains unclear if any arrests were made.
Additionally, federal authorities executed a search warrant at Combs’ residence in the Miami area, specifically on Star Island in Miami Beach. Reuters footage captured officers entering and leaving the property, with agents seen carrying materials from the home.
During the raids, Combs’ whereabouts were unknown. HSI spokespersons confirmed that these actions were part of an ongoing investigation, with assistance from HSI Los Angeles, HSI Miami, and local law enforcement partners, but did not provide further details on the nature of the investigation.
The lawsuit filed against Combs in November accuses him of subjecting his former girlfriend, R&B vocalist Cassandra Ventura, to physical abuse, sexual slavery, and rape over a decade-long professional and romantic relationship. Ventura alleged that Combs forced her to engage in sex acts with male prostitutes while he watched and filmed the encounters.
Combs, known by various monikers such as P. Diddy, Puff Daddy, and Diddy, settled the case with Ventura under confidential terms shortly after it was filed. His attorney emphasized that the settlement did not constitute an admission of wrongdoing and reiterated Combs’ denial of Ventura’s claims.
This lawsuit was one of multiple civil complaints lodged against Combs in recent months, all alleging sexual assault. Despite the mounting accusations, Combs maintains his denial, describing the allegations as fabrications intended to extort money.
Combs, renowned as the founder of Bad Boy Records and a prominent figure in hip-hop, has also built a successful career as a producer, performer, and entrepreneur through ventures like his Sean John clothing line.
