Rapper Diddy, also known as Sean Combs, has spoken out following the recent raids on his Los Angeles and Miami residences by federal officials. The 54-year-old star criticized the Department of Homeland Security for what he termed as a “gross overuse of military-level force” during the operation, which he described as an “ambush” and a “witch hunt.”
The raids, which occurred simultaneously at Diddy’s properties, saw a significant presence of federal agents, including command trucks stationed outside both locations. Diddy’s sons, Justin and Christian “King” Combs, were reportedly handcuffed during the California raid, although they were not formally arrested.
In response to the raids, Diddy’s attorney, Aaron Dyer, issued a statement denouncing the tactics employed by law enforcement. Dyer expressed outrage over the “excessive show of force and hostility” exhibited by authorities and raised concerns about the treatment of Diddy’s children and employees during the operation.
Dyer characterized the raids as an “unprecedented ambush” and criticized the coordinated media presence, which he believes contributed to a “premature rush to judgment” of Diddy. He asserted that the accusations against Diddy are meritless and stem from civil lawsuits, with no findings of criminal or civil liability against his client.
Diddy himself has maintained his innocence, vowing to “fight every single day to clear his name.” He emphasized that he was not previously informed about the search and was only made aware of the matter when confronted by Homeland Security officials at a Miami airport. Diddy had been en route to celebrate Spring Break with his family at the time of the encounter.
Federal Agents Search Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Properties in Sex Trafficking Probe
Combs underwent searches by federal agents as part of an ongoing sex trafficking investigation. The raids, conducted in Los Angeles and Miami, involved agents from Homeland Security Investigations, although it remains unclear if Combs himself is the target of the probe.
The operation, which received assistance from local law enforcement, signifies a significant development in the investigation. The U.S. attorney’s office in Manhattan declined to provide further details. This development comes amidst a backdrop of multiple sexual assault lawsuits filed against Combs in recent months, alleging coercion and abuse. While Combs’ representatives have yet to comment on the searches, attorneys representing the accusers express hope that it marks the beginning of accountability for Combs. As a prominent figure in the music industry, Combs has denied previous allegations against him.
The investigation into Diddy is reportedly linked to concerns about sex trafficking, although specific details have not been disclosed by authorities. This development comes after the rapper faced multiple sexual assault lawsuits in 2023, just ahead of the expiration of the Adult Survivors Act, which temporarily lifted the statute of limitations for such cases.
While one lawsuit was settled out of court within a day, additional lawsuits remain ongoing. Diddy’s representatives have dismissed the allegations as baseless and motivated by financial gain, accusing the plaintiffs of seeking “a quick payday” through false claims.
Despite the scrutiny and legal challenges, Diddy remains resolute in his assertion of innocence. He recently took to social media to address the allegations, declaring, “Enough is enough,” and pledging to defend his name, family, and reputation against what he describes as “sickening allegations.”
As the investigation continues, further information regarding the nature and scope of the probe is expected to emerge. Diddy and his legal team are prepared to confront the allegations head-on as they strive to uphold his innocence amidst a storm of controversy.