Diddy's legal woes are deepening as reports indicate a grand jury has been empaneled to review evidence in his ongoing federal investigation. This development suggests the music mogul could face a criminal indictment in the near future.
According to a report by CNN on Wednesday, the Justice Department is progressing with its investigation into Diddy. They have begun notifying witnesses about the possibility of testifying before a grand jury in the Southern District of New York. This information comes from two sources familiar with the situation.
Many of these potential witnesses are likely to be individuals who have filed lawsuits against Diddy, accusing him of sexual assault, human trafficking, and other serious offenses. To date, Diddy has been named in eight lawsuits, including a high-profile case brought by his former girlfriend, Cassie, which was settled swiftly.
Despite interviewing most plaintiffs in these lawsuits, federal investigators have yet to prepare them or other witnesses for grand jury testimony. Homeland Security Investigations agents are reportedly being meticulous to ensure the case against Diddy is robust should an indictment be issued.
Furthermore, CNN reported that federal agents have obtained a video showing a male sex worker who alleges he was victimized by Diddy in a private residence. While the sex worker has been interviewed by authorities, it remains uncertain if he will testify before the grand jury.
For those unfamiliar with the process, grand juries are composed of average citizens and serve as a critical phase in legal investigations. They signal a shift from preliminary inquiries to a stage where prosecutors present evidence and witness testimonies. Ultimately, the grand jury votes on whether to bring criminal charges against the defendant.
Sean "Diddy" Combs has been accused of sexual assault in a new lawsuit filed by a former model https://t.co/Lzd0Y0llLp
— CNN (@CNN) May 22, 2024
Earlier this year, law enforcement raided Diddy's homes in Miami and Los Angeles in March as part of a federal probe into his alleged involvement in sex and narcotics trafficking, as well as firearm-related violations.
Adding to the controversy, earlier this month CNN released surveillance footage showing Diddy assaulting Cassie in a Los Angeles hotel in 2016. However, the L.A. District Attorney's Office stated they could not pursue the case as the statute of limitations had expired.
As the investigation continues, the potential implications for Diddy remain significant, with the grand jury's involvement indicating serious legal challenges ahead.