Former Girlfriend Cassie Testifies About Alleged Abuse and ‘Freak Offs’ in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ Trial

NEW YORK (AP) — Cassie, the R&B singer and former partner of Sean “Diddy” Combs, shared her story in court about years of alleged abuse and exploitation during their relationship. As the key witness in Combs’ sex trafficking trial, she described intense moments of fear and control.

Cassie recounted being forced into sexual situations with male sex workers, which Combs called “freak offs.” She felt she couldn’t say “no” to him, describing instances where he became violent, physically hurting her. “Sean controlled every aspect of my life,” she said. “He’s charming but also very polarizing.”

In 2023, Cassie, whose full name is Casandra Ventura, filed a lawsuit against Combs. The suit was quickly settled, but it led to more legal action, prompting a criminal investigation into Combs’ behavior of coercing women into abusive situations.

Combs’ defense team argues that while he might be aggressive, his actions were not sex trafficking and the encounters were consensual. Defense lawyer Teny Geragos asserted that jurors might see Combs as a “jerk,” but the charges are specific.

Cassie met Combs in 2005 when she was only 19, and he was 37. He signed her to his Bad Boy Records. Her hit single “Me & U” topped the charts, showcasing her talent, but her personal life was overshadowed by turmoil.

Under questioning, Cassie described their relationship as a rollercoaster of good times and violent outbursts. She noted that the abuse escalated over time, leaving her physically and emotionally battered. “It was happening too frequently,” she explained, as tears streamed down her face. She is currently pregnant and often rested her hands on her belly while testifying.

One of the most troubling details shared was about the “freak offs.” Cassie remembered her first experience happening in Combs’ Los Angeles home when she was only 22. Although she followed his orders, she felt confused and degraded afterward. “I didn’t want to make him angry,” she admitted, highlighting the emotional toll it took on her.

These events became a routine for her. Cassie said they started occurring weekly, lasting for days and leaving her feeling like an object. “It became a job,” she said. “All I could do was recover and try to feel normal again.”

The prosecution presented video evidence of Combs allegedly assaulting Cassie, intensifying the claims against him. Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson emphasized that Cassie wasn’t the only victim, hinting at other women who suffered similar abuse.

Combs, 55, remains in custody after pleading not guilty. If convicted, he faces a sentence ranging from 15 years to life in prison.

The ongoing trial has sparked reactions on social media. Many users express anger and disbelief at the allegations, with calls for justice for Cassie and other victims. This case has not only highlighted the issues of power dynamics in relationships but also raised awareness about the experiences of women in the entertainment industry.

Overall, this trial is revealing deeper truths about control and coercion, echoing a broader societal conversation about abuse and accountability.



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