Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Arrested in Manhattan: Latest Sexual Abuse and Trafficking Charges Explained

On Monday, September 16, American rapper Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs was arrested in a Manhattan hotel lobby after being charged with multiple counts of sexual abuse and trafficking. As of Aug 2024, he has been charged with at least nine counts of abusive behavior. More details about the charges leveled in this latest arrest are not yet known.

“We are disappointed by the decision that Mr. Combs is being prosecuted in what is believed to be an unjust prosecution by the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said Combs’ attorney, Marc Agnifilo. “Son ‘Diddy’ Combs is a music icon, self-made entrepreneur, loving family man, and proven philanthropist who has built an empire, loved his children, and championed the Black community over the past 30 years. He is not a criminal, although he is imperfect.”

Homeland Security Investigations search warrants were served on the 58-year-old musician’s homes in Los Angeles and Miami on March 25, launching a federal investigation.

Diddy’s defense attorney Aaron Dyer called the raid “an excessive use of military-level force” the day after it happened. He called the allegations “baseless” and said Combs “is innocent and will continue to fight to clear his name.”

On November 16, 2023, Diddy faced intense scrutiny when his ex-girlfriend Cassie accused him of rape and a decade of abuse that allegedly began when she was 19. The singer signed over Diddy, saying he kept full control over her apartment, clothing, medical records, and car.

The lawsuit also alleged that Diddy targeted rapper Kid Cassie, who Cassie briefly dated during the turmoil of her relationship with Diddy. Cassie and Diddy settled out of court just one day after the suit was filed, but the allegations persisted. Surveillance footage obtained by CNN on May 17 showed DD physically assaulting Cassie in 2016. DIDI posted his apology on Instagram two days later.