Live Updates: Cassie Ventura Concludes Testimony in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ Sex Trafficking Trial

The trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs is currently underway in Manhattan federal court. Cassie Ventura, his former girlfriend, is the key witness. She has shared details about their intense relationship, which she described as violent and abusive.

Prosecutors allege that Combs used his influence to coerce women into participating in lengthy sexual encounters known as "freak offs." They claim he resorted to threats and violence, including kidnapping and arson, to hide his actions. At 55, Combs faces serious charges of sex trafficking and racketeering.

Ventura testified for over 20 hours, recounting disturbing events from their decade-long relationship. She described how some encounters would leave her physically and emotionally drained for days. The court viewed a 2016 surveillance video where Combs appears to assault her in a hotel hallway.

In response, Combs’ defense team presented hundreds of text messages between him and Ventura, suggesting she willingly took part in these encounters. They aimed to paint a different picture of their relationship.

Combs maintains his innocence, pleading not guilty. If convicted, he faces a potential life sentence and is currently held without bail in a Brooklyn jail. The jury consists of 12 New Yorkers and six alternates, and the trial could last up to eight weeks.

As this case unfolds, it highlights broader issues of abuse and power dynamics in relationships. According to a recent survey by the National Domestic Violence Hotline, nearly 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe intimate partner physical violence. With these statistics, Ventura’s testimony may resonate with many who have faced similar struggles.

This trial is not just about one individual; it reflects ongoing conversations about violence, consent, and the fight against domestic abuse. For anyone facing similar difficulties, the National Domestic Violence Hotline remains a vital resource. You can call them at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or check out more resources here.

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Cassie Ventura, Sean "Diddy" Combs, courtroom sketch, Arun Subramanian, Combs, Federal prosecutors, sex trafficking, Manhattan federal court