New York City – Sean “Diddy” Combs, a prominent figure in the hip-hop industry, has returned the key to the city that was bestowed upon him by Mayor Eric Adams last year. The key was presented to Combs in a ceremony held in Times Square in September 2023, coinciding with the release of his album “The Love Album: Off The Grid.”
Since receiving the key, Combs has been embroiled in legal troubles, facing lawsuits from several women alleging sexual assault and abuse. Additionally, a man has accused Combs of sexual misconduct. In May 2024, surveillance footage from a 2016 incident emerged, showing Combs purportedly assaulting singer Cassie, his girlfriend at the time, in a Los Angeles hotel corridor. Following the video’s release, Combs took to social media to issue an apology for his actions captured in the footage.
On June 4, Mayor Adams expressed deep concern over the surveillance video and requested that Combs return the key to the city. The mayor explained that the honor of receiving the key is reserved for individuals who demonstrate exceptional public service and serve as role models for fellow and future New Yorkers. Subsequently, the City Hall committee recommended nullifying and rescinding Combs’ key, a decision accepted by the mayor.
The mayor’s office confirmed the receipt of the returned key on Monday, indicating that Combs had complied with the request. Earlier in the month, Howard University rescinded an honorary degree bestowed upon Combs in 2014 and severed financial ties with him. The actions taken by both the mayor and the university reflect a growing trend of accountability and repercussions for individuals facing allegations of misconduct.