<human>: I'm 22 F. 

My previous relationship was a year and a half long shlep with a 22 y/o who showed sociopathic traits.  It was, in retrospect, an emotionally abusive relationship.  For example, he would cry and defend his intentions from here to infinity when I brought up things he did that hurt or offended me, had no empathy towards me or any other friends, especially not family. Did not have close friends with whom he spoke to about personal issues. 

The guy I'm currently with (21 M) worries me because he's charming (and aware of it), and has a reputation of being manipulative. 

According to him, his ex is spreading rumors about them sleeping together when they never have, among other things, all ending in "He's a bad person."  I've heard from multiple people who know me to not get involved with this guy.

His circle of friends do not believe the rumors.  He swears up and down that what she says isn't true.  But one can also say that I and his friends are under his realm of influence.  In my opinion, why would she flat out make up all sorts of things that can easily be dismissed? 

In addition: 

* He wants to be liked and wants to convince people he's not the asshole he's being made out to be.  
* He says he doesn't feel shame easily (this came up when trying to find something for him to do if he loses a bet)
* Describes himself as spontaneous/prefers spontaneity 

I don't know what to believe or whom to believe.  But I do not want to be in an emotionally abusive and manipulative situation again.  

Am I being paranoid?

Summarize the given text in a few sentences.
<bot>: Previously dated a possible sociopath. Don't want to fall into that trap again with the new SO.  Am I being paranoid or is this something to walk away from?