American rapper, record producer, and entrepreneur Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ team has broken their silence just over 24 hours after Homeland Security raided his homes. According to a statement to the Daily Mail, Aaron Dyer, an attorney for the rapper, alleges that the embattled entertainer is the victim of a “witch hunt.”
“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,” Dyer said, depicting the events of yesterday.
“Mr. Combs was never detained but spoke to and cooperated with authorities,” he added, referencing Combs seen speaking with customs at an airport minutes from his Miami Beach pad on Monday evening, though he was not arrested. “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.”
He continued: “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.”
“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, March 25, federal agents raided properties owned by Diddy as part of an ongoing investigation into the Bad Boy mogul. He faces accusations of sexual assault and sex trafficking, including allegations from his ex-flame Cassie, which have been settled. Homeland Security confirmed the raids in a statement.
“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,” the statement reads.
Helicopter footage from the scene showed several individuals in handcuffs, among them Diddy’s sons, Justin and Christian Combs.
Amid all the hoopla, Diddy has reportedly parted ways with Revolt. According to TMZ, the “Last Night” artist’s shares have been purchased by a “completely new” individual. This means he’s severed all ties to the media company he founded a decade ago.