Sean “Diddy” Combs has returned his symbolic key to New York City following a recommendation from a city committee to “nullify and rescind” the honor, according to Mayor Eric Adams.
The decision comes after CNN obtained a video showing Combs physically assaulting his then-girlfriend Cassie Ventura in 2016. In a letter dated June 4, Adams expressed his deep disturbance over the footage, stating, “I strongly condemn these actions and stand in solidarity with all survivors of domestic and gender-based violence.”
The committee’s recommendation led to Combs returning the key on June 10. Combs, who grew up in Harlem, was awarded the key in September 2023 for his significant public service and contributions.
CNN has reached out to Combs’ representatives for comment.
Since November, Combs has faced eight civil lawsuits, with seven accusing him of sexual assault. One lawsuit, filed by Ventura, has been settled. Another lawsuit involves his son Christian Combs, accusing Sean Combs of aiding and abetting sexual assault.
Combs has denied many of the allegations, describing them as “sickening” and made by accusers seeking financial gain. Despite his public denials, he has not responded to all the allegations.
Federal investigators are now preparing to present accusers before a federal grand jury, signaling that the US Justice Department may be moving toward seeking an indictment of Combs. This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing investigation into the producer and Bad Boy Records founder.
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Returns New York’s Key To The City Award Upon Mayor’s Request https://t.co/CtnQOX5ktp
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