The federal sex trafficking and racketeering trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs continued this week in New York City, with Days 3 through 5 marked by emotional testimony from Casandra “Cassie” Ventura Fine and corroborating accounts from other witnesses. Combs faces five felony counts, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, to which he has pleaded not guilty.
Day 3: Cassie Details Abuse and Coerced Sexual Encounters
On Wednesday, May 14, Cassie Ventura resumed her testimony, providing graphic details of the alleged abuse she endured during her 11-year relationship with Combs. She described being coerced into drug-fueled sex parties, referred to as “Freak Offs,” which she claimed disrupted her career and eroded her self-worth. Ventura also recounted instances of physical violence, including being beaten over minor disputes. Her testimony was supported by surveillance footage from 2016 showing Combs attacking her in a Los Angeles hotel, leading to charges against him.
Day 4: Defense Challenges Cassie’s Credibility
On Thursday, May 15, the defense began cross-examining Ventura, focusing on inconsistencies in her account of a 2018 rape and highlighting continued contact between her and Combs afterward. Defense attorney Anna Estevao referenced affectionate messages and another consensual sexual encounter in September 2018 to suggest complex motivations, using rape myths to question her credibility. Ventura maintained composure during cross-examination, emphasizing the long-term psychological damage inflicted upon her. She described feeling “worthless, just like dirt” during the abusive and exploitative “Freak Off” sessions allegedly orchestrated by Combs.
Day 5: Cassie Concludes Testimony; Dawn Richard Corroborates Abuse
On Friday, May 16, Ventura concluded her testimony, reiterating the abuse she suffered and expressing a desire to reclaim her autonomy, stating she would return the $20 million settlement if she could.
According to Reuters, singer Dawn Richard testified that she witnessed Combs physically abuse Ventura during a 2009 incident, recalling that Combs attempted to hit Ventura with a skillet full of eggs. Richard also alleged that Combs threatened her and others to remain silent. Additionally, Homeland Security agent Yasin Binda testified about evidence collected during Combs’ arrest, including drugs and drug paraphernalia.
The trial continues to draw significant media attention due to Combs’ prominence in the music industry and the serious nature of the allegations. Proceedings are expected to last up to two months, with further testimonies and evidence to be presented in the coming weeks.
