U.S. Department of Homeland Security have searched Sean “Diddy” Combs’ properties in Los Angeles and the Miami region amidst sex trafficking allegations.
Agents from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security have initiated an investigation into the activities of hip-hop icon Sean “Diddy” Combs, conducting searches at his properties in Los Angeles and the Miami region, according to agency officials speaking on Monday.
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The investigation, spearheaded by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents based in New York, stems from a lawsuit filed against Combs in federal court in November by a former girlfriend, alleging involvement in sex trafficking.
Sean Combs, aged 54, vehemently denies the allegations, asserting that his accusers are motivated by financial gain. His attorney, Ben Brafman, has not yet responded to requests for comment from Reuters.
Aerial footage broadcast by Los Angeles television stations depicted HSI agents and other law enforcement agencies raiding Combs’ opulent residence in the affluent Holmby Hills neighborhood. While several individuals were reportedly detained outside the property, it remains unclear if any arrests were made.
In addition to the Los Angeles operation, federal authorities executed a search warrant at Combs’ residence in the Miami area. Footage from Reuters showed officers entering and exiting his property on Star Island, Miami Beach, with agents seen carrying materials from the home.
Combs’ whereabouts during the raids remain unknown.
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Responding to inquiries from Reuters, HSI spokespersons confirmed that the actions were part of an ongoing investigation, involving collaboration between HSI New York, HSI Los Angeles, HSI Miami, and local law enforcement partners. However, the statement did not provide details regarding the specific nature of the investigation.
HSI possesses broad jurisdiction to probe various illegal activities, including sex trafficking, within and across the United States.
The investigation follows a federal lawsuit filed by R&B singer Cassandra Ventura in mid-November in Manhattan, accusing Combs of subjecting her to physical abuse, sexual slavery, and rape over a decade-long professional and romantic relationship.
Among the allegations in Ventura’s lawsuit was the claim that Combs compelled her to engage in sexual activities with male prostitutes while he observed and recorded the encounters.
While Ventura and Combs announced a settlement the day after the lawsuit was filed, the terms of the agreement remain confidential. Brafman reiterated that the settlement did not constitute an admission of guilt on Combs’ part.
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Ventura’s lawsuit was one of several civil complaints alleging sexual assault against Combs in recent months. In response to the allegations, Combs has consistently denied any wrongdoing, labeling them as fabrications aimed at extorting money.
Combs, known for his influential role in hip-hop as the founder of Bad Boy Records and his successful music career, as well as his Sean John clothing line, remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry amid the ongoing investigation.