Sean “Diddy” Combs has denied a new allegation of sexual battery after Los Angeles County authorities confirmed they have launched an investigation into claims made by a male accuser.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) said its Special Victims Bureau received a report earlier this month relating to alleged incidents in 2020 and 2021. Detectives have now begun reviewing the claims.
A spokesperson said the case was referred to them after a police report was filed in Florida in September.
What the accuser alleges
According to details contained in that report, the alleged victim – described in US media as a music producer and publicist – claims two separate incidents involving the rapper took place in Los Angeles.
He says he was invited to a warehouse photoshoot in late 2020 where Combs allegedly exposed himself while wearing one of the late rapper The Notorious B.I.G.’s shirts. The complainant alleges Combs tried to force him into a sexual act.
A second alleged incident in March 2021 claims the man was assaulted after being blindfolded by two unidentified individuals before Combs entered the room.
The accuser says he did not report the incidents at the time due to fear and professional pressure.
Diddy’s response
Combs’ legal team issued a firm denial, calling the allegations “false and defamatory”.
His attorney said they “cannot address every meritless claim in what has become a media circus”, insisting Combs had not sexually abused anyone.
The 55-year-old is currently in prison after being convicted earlier this year on separate charges relating to the transportation of individuals for prostitution. He is serving a sentence of just over four years.
Investigation ongoing
LASD said no charges have been filed and the investigation remains at an early stage.
“This case will be thoroughly reviewed,” a spokesperson said, adding that detectives will assess evidence and determine whether the matter should be referred to prosecutors.
The new allegation adds to a series of civil and criminal claims made against Combs in recent years, several of which he has strongly denied.
The Sheriff’s Department will now continue gathering information before deciding whether to present the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
No timeline has been given for when that decision may be made.
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