Several accusers of Sean “Diddy” Combs might soon be summoned to testify before a federal grand jury, signifying that an indictment against the troubled music mogul could be forthcoming, according to various reports.
Federal investigators have already informed several witnesses that they may be required to give testimony before a federal grand jury in New York City, CNN reported.
These potential witnesses have filed civil suits against Combs, and although they have been notified, they have not yet undergone any preparation for testimony, the outlet added.
While the possibility of an indictment remains uncertain, investigators appear to be meticulously building their case to ensure it is “bulletproof,” as per a source familiar with the investigation.
Many of Combs’ accusers who have filed lawsuits have already been interviewed by federal investigators, some on multiple occasions, CNN stated.
The music producer is currently facing seven civil lawsuits that include numerous shocking allegations. He is also mentioned in a civil suit filed against his son, Christian Combs.
Singer Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, who had a decade-long relationship with Combs in the early 2000s, filed a significant lawsuit in New York federal court last November. The suit alleges sex trafficking, human trafficking, sexual battery, sexual assault, and gender-motivated violence, among other claims.
While Combs has denied all allegations, he issued an apology after hotel surveillance video from 2016, obtained by CNN, showed him violently attacking Ventura.
Two months ago, federal investigators raided Combs’ properties, although he has not been charged yet. Previous federal prosecutors suggest that legal action could still be imminent.
On March 25, Department of Homeland Security agents conducted raids at Combs’ multimillion-dollar mansion in Los Angeles and his Miami waterfront home, raising questions about what triggered the searches.
Since then, the investigation has remained largely under wraps, likely due to prosecutors still building their case, noted Nadia Shihata, who prosecuted R. Kelly for sex crimes in New York. She emphasized that the complexity of the case necessitates a thorough fact-finding process.
Investigators reportedly collected significant amounts of evidence, including electronic devices and phones, which require thorough analysis, said Shihata. They are also likely interviewing numerous individuals, including potential victims, former and current employees, and members of Combs’ entourage, she added.
Federal authorities have given limited public comments regarding the raids, but Truth Voices affiliate WPIX reported that it was part of an ongoing sex trafficking investigation.
According to a New York Post report, authorities are expanding their investigation to include potential witness intimidation, sexual assault, and firearms violations. Reports also suggest that the probe could be broadened to revisit a 1999 shooting outside a New York City nightclub.
