Celebrity News March 26, 2024
Diddy Breaks Silence on Raids of His Homes by Feds
On Tuesday, Sean “Diddy” Combs released his statement regarding the recent raids of his L.A. and Miami homes by Homeland Security.
In a statement obtained by "Extra," Combs’ legal team said, “Yesterday, there was a gross overuse of military-level force as search warrants were executed at Mr. Combs’ residences. There is no excuse for the excessive show of force and hostility exhibited by authorities or the way his children and employees were treated.”
“Mr. Combs was never detained but spoke to and cooperated with authorities. Despite media speculation, neither Mr. Combs nor any of his family members have been arrested nor has their ability to travel been restricted in any way. This unprecedented ambush — paired with an advanced, coordinated media presence — leads to a premature rush to judgment of Mr. Combs and is nothing more than a witch hunt based on meritless accusations made in civil lawsuits,” the statement continued. “There has been no finding of criminal or civil liability with any of these allegations. Mr. Combs is innocent and will continue to fight every single day to clear his name.”
On Monday, TMZ reported authorities shut down the area around Diddy’s L.A. mansion. There was a large law enforcement presence on the ground, and two helicopters above.
Officials told TMZ, "Earlier today, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New York executed law enforcement actions as part of an ongoing investigation, with assistance from HSI Los Angeles, HSI Miami, and our local law enforcement partners. We will provide further information as it becomes available."
According to FOX 11, the raids were possibly tied to a sex trafficking investigation. Footage obtained by the media outlet showed law enforcement at the L.A. property with guns drawn, as well as his sons King and Justin outside in handcuffs. They were later released.
Hours later, Diddy was spotted walking around freely outside of a customs office in a video obtained by TMZ.
Eyewitnesses told the site that Diddy and his party were stopped by the feds. The rapper was waiting for his group, who were being questioned.
"Extra's" Melvin Robert spoke with TMZ's Charles Latibeaudiere, who elaborated on the sighting.
Charles pointed out that the billionaire rapper was reportedly getting ready to fly out for spring break. He said, "Custom agents got on the plane, they were searching the plane and speaking to other passengers. They did not attempt to hold Diddy or detain him."