Sean "Diddy" Combs is reportedly under federal criminal investigation for allegations of sex trafficking.
NBC News reports that federal authorities in the Southern District of New York informed Combs' legal team last week that he is the focus of an ongoing investigation, according to two sources familiar with his recent legal issues.
The same sources indicate that a federal grand jury is currently reviewing evidence as part of the investigation, though there has been no confirmation yet that formal charges will be filed.
News of the investigation into Combs, 54, follows a recent sex trafficking and assault lawsuit filed against him on Wednesday, July 3. Court documents obtained by PEOPLE reveal that former adult film star Adria English accused Combs of sexually assaulting and trafficking her for years at “white parties” held at his residences in Hamptons, New York, and Miami.
Jonathan Davis, Combs' lawyer, addressed the new allegations in a statement to PEOPLE, asserting, “No matter how many lawsuits are filed it won’t change the fact that Mr. Combs has never sexually assaulted or sex trafficked anyone.”
“We live in a world where anyone can file a lawsuit for any reason and without any proof,” the attorney continued. “Fortunately, a fair and impartial judicial process exists to find the truth and Mr. Combs is confident he will prevail against these and other baseless claims in court.”
Since November, at least six others have filed lawsuits against Combs following a high-profile case by his ex-girlfriend, singer Cassie (real name Casandra Ventura), who accused him of rape, sex trafficking, and domestic violence. All plaintiffs allege that the rapper either sexually assaulted or harassed them.
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