Federal agents from the Department of Homeland Security’s Investigation (HSI) division raided three properties owned by hip-hop superstar Sean “Diddy” Combs on Monday in a sweeping human trafficking investigation.
Homes in Los Angeles and Miami were swarmed by teams of heavily armed law enforcement officials. Multiple suspects were taken away in handcuffs, including the performer’s sons, 25-year-old King and 30-year-old Justin in California.
HSI released the following statement: “Earlier today, Homeland Security Investigations executed law enforcement actions as part of an ongoing investigation with assistance from HSI Los Angeles, HSI Miami and our local law enforcement partners.”
The agency said more information was forthcoming.
It is unclear if Combs is the specific target of the raids. However, computers and other electronic devices owned by the singer were confiscated.
There’s going to be a lot more redacted names from the police and court documents when Sean Combs starts snitching as well. pic.twitter.com/7eCouf6AmB
— Kerry Slone (@thereal_SnS) March 26, 2024
The New York Post reported that other properties in New York and Chicago linked to Combs are also expected to be raided in the human trafficking investigation.
Multiple lawsuits were filed against the music mogul alleging attacks on individuals. The first came from ex-girlfriend and R&B singer Casandra Ventura, and it was settled within one day of being filed.
Ventura’s attorney, Douglas Wigdor, also represents another Combs accuser. He issued a statement Monday expressing his hope that “this is the beginning of a process that will hold Mr. Combs responsible for his depraved conduct.”
A music producer in February filed legal action accusing Combs of pressuring him to engage in illicit acts with adult workers. The singer’s attorney, Shawn Holley, declared “we have overwhelming, indisputable proof that his claims are complete lies.”
Yet another woman accused the producer of attacking her two decades ago. She was 17 at the time.
Once known as “Puff Daddy,” Combs is a three-time Grammy winner who is recognized as one of the premiere hip-hop producers in the industry. He created a line of fashion clothing and founded a TV channel focused on music.
The federal raids mark the latest misconduct scandal to rock the entertainment industry. Movie producer Harvey Weinstein and “That 70s Show” actor Danny Masterson are both imprisoned after being convicted of attacking female victims.
And singer R. Kelly is incarcerated after being convicted of misconduct involving several young fans.
