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Authorities discuss indictment against Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs – NBC Los Angeles

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Authorities discuss indictment against Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs – NBC Los Angeles


What to Know

  • Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs was taken into custody Monday in New York. Authorities say he ran an “enterprise that he engaged in sex trafficking, forced labor or, kidnapping, arson and other crimes.”
  • In March, federal authorities searched the Holmby Hills estate of Combs, but officials at the time did not disclose the nature of the investigation.
  • In May, Combs apologized after the release of disturbing 2016 surveillance video taken in a Century City hotel that showed a violent altercation with then-girlfriend Cassie Ventura.

Authorities in New York scheduled a Tuesday morning news conference to discuss the allegations outlined in an indictment against hip-hop mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs.

Combs, who has a home in Holmby Hills in Los Angeles, was charged Tuesday with sex trafficking by force, transportation to engage in prostitution and racketeering conspiracy, alleging he ran an “enterprise that he engaged in sex trafficking, forced labor or, kidnapping, arson and other crimes,” according to the indictment unsealed in a New York court.

Combs was taken into custody Monday in New York. He was arrested in the lobby of a hotel, a representative told NBC News.

The United States Attorney’s office issued a statement.

“Earlier this evening, federal agents arrested Sean Combs, based on a sealed indictment filed by the SDNY,” United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York Damian Williams said in a statement. “We expect to move to unseal the indictment in the morning and will have more to say at that time.”

Combs is awaiting arraignment in federal court in New York on Tuesday.

In May, Combs apologized after the release of disturbing 2016 surveillance video taken in a Century City hotel, which appears to show the rapper and producer physically assaulting then-girlfriend Cassie Ventura. Los Angeles County prosecutors have said no criminal charges were forthcoming against the rapper and producer over the incident since too much time has passed.

“It’s so difficult to reflect on the darkest times in your life, but sometimes you got to do that,” Diddy said in an Instagram video posted Sunday morning. “I was f_____ up. I mean I hit rock bottom, but I make no excuses. My behavior on that video is inexcusable. I take full responsibility for my actions in that video. Disgusting. I was disgusting then when I did it, I’m disgusted now.

“I went and I sought out professional help. I’m going to therapy, going to rehab. I have asked God for his mercy and grace. I’m so sorry, but I’m committed to be a better man each and every day. I’m not asking for forgiveness. I’m truly sorry.”

In March, federal authorities searched the Holmby Hills estate of Combs, but officials at the time did not disclose the nature of the investigation.

Agents from the Department of Homeland Security carried out the raid March 25 in the area of Mapleton Drive and Sunset Boulevard. Video from the scene showed numerous law enforcement officials, a possible armored vehicle and several people detained outside the home. It was unclear if any actual arrests were made.

Following a civil lawsuit filed by Ventura, at least 10 more lawsuits were filed against Combs. He has denied the allegations in all of the lawsuits. The suit by Ventura was settled shortly after it was filed.

Combs’ lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, responded to the arrest of his client in a statement, calling it “an unjust prosecution.”



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Devastated family of woman killed by rock thrown through car windshield speaks out – NBC Los Angeles

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Devastated family of woman killed by rock thrown through car windshield speaks out – NBC Los Angeles


The devastated family of Sarina Rodriguez who was killed after someone threw a rock through her car windshield is speaking out about the tragedy as the person responsible remains at large.

Rodriguez was driving with her boyfriend along Highway 138 near Highway 18 in Antelope Valley just after midnight on Oct. 8 when a large rock was thrown through her windshield, according to CHP. The rock struck and killed the 25-year-old driver.

“It happened right before I went into the turn. A car passed me never went into the turn, the rock was directly for the driver right above the cluster it broke the steering wheel ring,” recounted Franko Martinez, who was the passenger in the vehicle.

Martinez said he was able to steer the car to the shoulder but there was nothing he could do to help Rodriguez.

“All I can do is pray right now. It’s hard to sleep,” said Martinez.

CHP continues to investigate the tragedy and at least one other similar incident that happened two days before Rodriguez was killed, where a large rock was thrown at another car’s windshield.

“I didn’t get to say goodbye to her and I didn’t get to tell her how much I loved her because I do. I did. I always will,” said Sylvia Perez, sister to Rodriguez.

The heartbroken family asks anyone on the road that day who may have seen something to come forward to help keep other drivers safe and bring justice to Rodriguez.

“There is a killer on this road and we have to find this person,” said Drew Harrity, uncle to Rodriguez. “There was a whole life behind this story that was cut short and a promising future that she had. I can promise you if anyone out there met her they would love her too. That’s who she was.”



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7-Eleven owners back Prop 36 with $1 million check following wave of robberies – NBC Los Angeles

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7-Eleven owners back Prop 36 with $1 million check following wave of robberies – NBC Los Angeles


7-Eleven owners, city officials and law enforcement rallied together Thursday to support Prop 36, after a string of brazen smash-and-grab robberies. 

From Anaheim to Pico-Robertson, 7-Elevens across Southern California have been targeted by thieves. The rally for Prop 36 comes just days after a 7-Eleven was ransacked and two employees were assaulted in Hollywood.

Prop 36 aims to increase punishments for some theft and drug possession offenses.

The 7-Eleven franchise owner whose store hosted the press conference said passing Prop 36 will benefit not only business owners but also citizens. 

“I’ve operated in this area for nearly 25 years and have seen the growth in crime rates firsthand,” said Franchisee Jawad Ursani. “We need Prop 36 to ensure that businesses can operate without fear of crime and that Californians feel safe in their communities.” 

Over $2 million was raised by Franchisees and 7-Eleven, Inc. in support of the proposition. Franchisees made the most recent donation of $500,000 which was matched by 7-Eleven, Inc to show support to business owners and the communities they serve.

“Today’s event is a testament to the dedication of our Franchisees and the entire 7-Eleven family,” said Randy Quinn, Senior Vice President of Franchise Operations for 7-Eleven, Inc. “We cannot accept a status quo that allows crime to flourish. Together, we are taking a stand.”  

Franchisees who have fallen victim to retail crime also spoke at the event about their experiences. 

In a statement, 7-Eleven wrote they will continue to advocate for a safer environment for the community and business owners throughout California as the November election approaches. 



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Group of female skydivers break world record in Perris – NBC Los Angeles

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Group of female skydivers break world record in Perris – NBC Los Angeles


A group of women, representing 21 countries, have set a world skydiving record in Southern California skies. 

The women, aging from 21 to 70, have been practicing these unique, snowflake-like formations for around a year. 

At speeds over 120 mph, they jumped from four airplanes flying at 16,500 ft. 

They had 60 seconds to link hands and create the first formation, release and build their second formation before letting go and opening their parachutes. 

Beyond record setting, the women said it’s about pushing boundaries and showing what is possible when women come together.

“We are all sisters,” a skydiver said. “And it was just amazing to see how we supported each other.” 



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