Def Jam founder Russell Simmons has put both his Manhattan penthouse and Los Angeles estate on the market, sparking rumors that he is preparing to leave the United States.
Over the past year, 16 women have accused Simmons of sexual misconduct and, in several cases, rape. The incidents span from 1983 to a few years ago.
So far, Simmons hasn't been charged with any crimes. But now that he's dumping his U.S. homes -- and has already closed down or separated himself from all of his businesses -- there are questions about how long plans to remain in the range of the U.S. legal system.
Sources say Simmons has been spending a lot of time in Bali, a favorite destination (the island is a province of Indonesia, which has no extradition treaty with the U.S.). A spokesperson for Simmons says the mogul is still America-based but simply is traveling more. "Russell divested himself of his active U.S. business interests last year to focus on his spiritual practice and serving his community," says the rep. "As part of that journey, Russell has traveled to many spiritual destinations around the world but continues to retain active family presence and residence in the U.S."
Simmons has denied all the allegations against him.