Sean “Diddy” Combs has returned the Key to New York City at the request of Mayor Eric Adams. This decision follows the release of a disturbing video showing Combs assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, in 2016. The video, which surfaced last month, has led to significant backlash against the music mogul.
Mayor Adams, deeply troubled by the footage, sent formal letters to Combs’ offices in New York and Los Angeles on June 4, asking for the key’s immediate return. The mayor emphasized that the Key to the City is awarded to individuals who exemplify the highest standards of public service and act as role models for New Yorkers. Given the gravity of the allegations and the evidence presented, the Key to the City committee recommended rescinding Combs’ honor, a recommendation Adams accepted.
The mayor’s office confirmed that the key was returned to City Hall on June 10. In his letter, Adams expressed his solidarity with survivors of domestic and gender-based violence, condemning Combs’ actions and stating that such behavior is incompatible with the values the city upholds.
The video, aired by CNN in May, shows Combs attacking Ventura in a Los Angeles hotel hallway. Combs, who was seen wearing just socks and a towel, later apologized for his actions in a social media post, calling his behavior “inexcusable” and taking full responsibility.
The fallout from the video’s release has been swift and severe. Howard University, which had awarded Combs an honorary degree in 2014, rescinded the honor earlier this month. The university also cut financial ties with Combs, returning a $1 million donation and disbanding a scholarship program in his name.
Combs’ career has been marred by numerous accusations of sexual abuse and a federal criminal sex-trafficking investigation. The investigation led to raids on his properties in Los Angeles and Miami. The video of the assault on Ventura has only intensified scrutiny on Combs, who has faced multiple lawsuits from women accusing him of sexual misconduct.
Ventura’s lawsuit, filed in November, detailed years of physical and sexual abuse by Combs. The case was settled out of court a day after it was filed, but the video corroborated her claims and sparked further legal actions against the music mogul.
Combs, a prominent figure in the hip-hop industry and founder of Bad Boy Records, has seen his reputation and career take significant hits in recent months. The decision to return the Key to the City marks a notable moment in his ongoing legal and public relations battles.
Mayor Adams’ decision to rescind the key underscores the city’s commitment to supporting survivors of domestic violence and holding individuals accountable for their actions. The mayor’s office has made it clear that the honor of the Key to the City is reserved for those who truly embody the values of service and integrity.
As the federal investigation into Combs continues, authorities are reportedly preparing his accusers to potentially testify before a grand jury in New York City. The outcome of these proceedings could have further implications for Combs’ future.
In the meantime, the return of the Key to the City serves as a powerful statement against domestic violence and a reminder of the responsibilities that come with public honors. The city of New York, through Mayor Adams’ actions, has taken a firm stand in support of survivors and against those who perpetrate violence.
