Sean “Diddy” Combs Issues Public Apology After 2016 Assault Video Surfaces
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Sean “Diddy” Combs has publicly apologized following the release of a surveillance video showing him physically assaulting his ex-girlfriend, musician Cassie, in 2016.
This video adds to the controversies surrounding the rapper, who has faced multiple lawsuits and a federal investigation since last November, including allegations of sex trafficking, sexual abuse, and rape—all of which he has denied.
KEY FACTS
The video depicts Combs grabbing, dragging, and kicking Cassie, mirroring allegations from a lawsuit she filed and settled last year. Cassie had claimed she was trying to escape further abuse when the incident occurred.
On Sunday, Diddy took to Instagram to express his regret, calling his behaviour “disgusting” and revealing he sought professional help through rehab and therapy after the incident.
The Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office acknowledged the video, describing it as “extremely disturbing,” but stated they would not pursue charges due to the statute of limitations.
In March, Combs’ homes in Los Angeles and Miami were searched by federal agents as part of a sex trafficking investigation. Despite the searches, Combs has not been charged with any crimes.
Diddy has faced several lawsuits since last November. Cassie accused him of rape and a prolonged abusive relationship, which included physical violence and control over her life. Her $30 million lawsuit was settled amicably last year, with no admission of wrongdoing from Combs.
Another lawsuit by Joie Dickerson-Neal alleged Combs drugged and sexually assaulted her in 1991, while a separate suit accused Combs and Aaron Hall of raping an anonymous plaintiff in the early 1990s.
In December, a lawsuit claimed Combs participated in a gang rape in 2003, involving a 17-year-old.
The most recent lawsuit, filed last month by producer Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones, accused Combs of orchestrating unwanted advances and forcing him into sexual activities with hired sex workers. The suit alleges Combs hosted “sex-trafficking parties” with underage women and illegal drugs.
RESPONSE AND CONTROVERSY
Combs has denied all allegations, with his attorneys describing the lawsuits as “baseless” and “sickening.” He has not faced any criminal charges.
BACKGROUND ON DIDDY COMBS ALLEGATION
The allegations against Combs span decades, dating back to the 1990s when he founded Bad Boy Records. Cassie’s lawsuit also claimed Combs paid $50,000 to the hotel for the surveillance footage.
One of his homes raided in March is located in Holmby Hills, Los Angeles, which he purchased for $40 million a decade ago.
