In a harrowing testimony on the third day of Sean “Diddy” Combs’s federal sex trafficking and racketeering trial, singer and former partner Casandra “Cassie” Ventura detailed years of alleged abuse, including rape, physical violence, and psychological manipulation. The trial, unfolding at the Daniel Patrick Moynihan U.S. Courthouse in Manhattan, has brought to light disturbing allegations against the music mogul.The Guardian+8The Washington Post+8People.com+8The Washington Post+1The Washington Post+1
Allegations of Rape and Abuse
Ventura testified that during their 11-year relationship, Combs subjected her to repeated instances of sexual assault and physical abuse. She recounted a particularly violent incident in 2016 at a Los Angeles hotel, where surveillance footage captured Combs assaulting her. The footage, which has been presented as evidence, shows Combs hitting and kicking Ventura, leading to visible injuries that she attempted to conceal while attending a film premiere shortly afterward. The Cut+1The Guardian+1People.com+1The Cut+1
Coerced Participation in ‘Freak-Offs’
Ventura described being forced into “Freak-Offs,” multi-day, drug-fueled orgies orchestrated by Combs. She alleged that Combs controlled various aspects of her life, including her appearance and career, using emotional manipulation and threats involving explicit recordings to ensure her compliance. These events often involved paid escorts and were used as leverage over her, with Combs allegedly recording the encounters and threatening to release the footage. Forbes+3The Cut+3CT Insider+3
Psychological Manipulation and Control
Beyond physical abuse, Ventura testified about the psychological control Combs exerted over her. She revealed that he forced her to call him “Pop Pop” during their relationship, a detail that underscores the extent of the emotional manipulation she endured. DIE WELT+7The Cut+7The Times of India+7The Times of India
Legal Context and Potential Consequences
Combs faces multiple federal charges, including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation for prostitution. He has pleaded not guilty and remains in custody at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment. The Washington Post+7People.com+7Forbes+7
Previous Lawsuit and Settlement
In 2023, Ventura filed a lawsuit against Combs alleging rape and years of abuse. The lawsuit was settled quickly, with Ventura receiving a $20 million settlement. However, the emergence of new evidence, including the 2016 assault footage, has reignited legal proceedings against Combs. The Washington Post+4Wikipedia+4CT Insider+4CT Insider+4The Washington Post+4The Washington Post+4The Washington Post+1People.com+1
Public and Media Reaction
The trial has garnered significant public and media attention, with many expressing support for Ventura’s courage in coming forward. The case has also sparked broader conversations about abuse of power and accountability within the entertainment industry.
Conclusion
As the trial continues, Ventura’s testimony serves as a pivotal component of the prosecution’s case against Combs. Her detailed accounts of abuse and manipulation provide a stark insight into the alleged misconduct of one of the music industry’s most prominent figures. The proceedings are expected to continue over the coming weeks, with further testimonies and evidence to be presented.The Cut+1The Washington Post+1The Guardian+3The Times of India+3Page Six+3
