Live Updates: Dawn Richard Takes the Stand in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Sex Trafficking Trial

The trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs is currently unfolding in a Manhattan federal court. The 55-year-old music mogul faces serious charges including sex trafficking and racketeering.

Prosecutors allege that for years, Combs manipulated and threatened women to engage in long sexual encounters known as “freak offs.” They claim he used his wealth and influence, along with intimidation tactics, to hide his actions.

Dawn Richard, a member of the girl group Danity Kane, resumed her testimony recently. She has reported witnessing Combs physically assault his ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, on several occasions.

Ventura herself spent four days on the stand, detailing a decade-long relationship filled with violence. She described the intense “freak offs” that would leave her physically drained. The jury also saw a video from 2016 showing Combs hitting and dragging Ventura in a hotel. In response, Combs’s defense presented numerous text messages in an attempt to prove that Ventura was a willing participant in their sexual encounters.

Combs has pleaded not guilty. If convicted, he faces significant prison time—potentially up to life. He remains in custody without bail as 12 jurors and six alternates determine his fate. The trial is expected to continue for at least eight weeks.

This case has sparked a robust dialogue online, reflecting deep societal concerns about domestic violence and power dynamics in relationships. According to a recent study by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, around one in four women experience severe intimate partner physical violence. This trial shines a light on those issues, highlighting the importance of discussing and addressing such behavior.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, resources are available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers help at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) and more resources can be found on their website.

For live updates, follow ongoing coverage from trusted sources like the Associated Press and CNN as the trial progresses.



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