The most current takeaways from the Diddy trials

Just the facts

As of May 18, 2025, Sean "Diddy" Combs is currently on trial in New York City facing serious federal charges, including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion, and transportation to engage in prostitution. The trial began on May 5, 2025, with jury selection, and opening statements and witness testimony commenced on May 12.

Cassie leaves people speechless

Cassie Ventura's Testimony: Cassie Ventura, Combs' ex-girlfriend, has provided detailed testimony over four days, describing a pattern of abuse and coercion. She alleges that Combs subjected her to violence and threats to maintain control over her, including organizing drug-fueled sex parties. The prosecution argues that these actions constitute sex trafficking and racketeering.

Key Aspects of Cassie's Testimony

Allegations of Coercion and Abuse: Cassie described being manipulated into participating in "freak-off" sessions with male sex workers, orchestrated by Combs. She testified that Combs filmed these encounters and threatened to release the footage to control her, even though she found the activities degrading and repulsive. Her testimony painted a picture of a decade-long relationship dominated by fear and manipulation.

Physical Abuse Evidence: A significant piece of evidence presented was a 2016 surveillance video showing Combs kicking and dragging Cassie in a Los Angeles hotel. Despite defense claims of video manipulation, the judge ruled the footage admissible, allowing it to be shown in court.

Emotional and Psychological Impact: Cassie recounted experiencing suicidal thoughts and enduring years of trauma, emphasizing her decision to testify as a step toward healing and justice

Dawn Richards testifies

Dawn Richard's Testimony: Former Danity Kane member Dawn Richard testified that she witnessed Combs attacking Ventura in 2009. Richard described an incident where Combs allegedly became violent over food, leading to Ventura falling into a fetal position and being dragged upstairs. Richard also recounted that Combs later downplayed the assault as "passion" and gave flowers to those present .

Witnessing Abuse of Cassie Ventura

Richards testified that in 2009, she witnessed Combs assaulting his then-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, in his kitchen. She described Combs seizing a skillet from Cassie, attempting to strike her, and then physically attacking her by punching and kicking.

Cassie fell into a fetal position, and although it appeared she was not fully struck, Combs reportedly dragged her upstairs. Richard heard yelling and the sound of glass breaking but did not intervene, citing fear. Following the assault, Combs reportedly downplayed the incident as "passion" and gave Richard and bandmate Kalenna Harper flowers

Personal Experiences of Abuse and Exploitation

In her lawsuit, Richard detailed multiple instances of abuse and exploitation by Combs:

Sexual Assault: She alleged that between 2009 and 2011, Combs would enter her dressing room while she was undressed and grope her bare buttocks and chest area near her breasts. She also claimed that Combs made overt sexual advances toward her during a trip to Glasgow, Scotland, in October 2010 .

Physical Abuse and Threats: Richard accused Combs of threatening her life, saying, “You want to die today?” and bragging that “I end people.” She also alleged that he locked her in a car for hours at one point.

Unpaid Wages and Exploitation:

The lawsuit claims Richard is owed approximately $1.2 million in unpaid wages, royalties, and promotional income. She alleged that Combs withheld her earnings, stole her copyrighted works, and subjected her to inhumane working conditions, including groping, assault, and false imprisonment .

Witnessing Exploitative Parties

Richard recounted attending a 2009 after-party in New York, where she observed dozens of young women and girls—some of whom appeared underage—being ushered in. These individuals were reportedly given drugs and alcohol and appeared lethargic or passed out while Combs and others performed sexual acts on them. Richard believed she was invited to the party as a "test" to see if Combs could trust her .

Legal Actions and Recent Developments

On the same day as her testimony, Combs filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed against him by Richard. The timing of this request is considered strategic, possibly aimed at undermining the impact of Richard’s testimony .

Richard's testimony has been instrumental in shedding light on the abusive and exploitative environment allegedly fostered by Combs, providing crucial support to the prosecution's case.

Aubrey O'Day offers empathy

Aubrey O'Day's Statement: Although not called to testify, singer Aubrey O'Day expressed her support for the victims, calling the trial "bittersweet." She has been vocal about her experiences with Combs in the past and has used her podcast to discuss the ongoing trial .

Legal Developments

Motion to Dismiss Lawsuit: On the same day as Richard's testimony, Combs filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed against him by Richard. The timing of this request has been interpreted as an attempt to undermine the impact of Richard's testimony.

Federal Raids and Evidence: In March 2024, federal agents raided Combs' $61.5 million Los Angeles mansion, seizing 1,000 bottles of baby oil and various electronics. These items are believed to be related to the alleged sex trafficking activities. The mansion, previously listed for sale, was later re-listed after the raids .

Potential Consequences

If convicted on all charges, Sean Combs faces a minimum of 15 years in prison for sex trafficking, with the possibility of a life sentence for racketeering. The trial is expected to last several weeks, with additional witnesses and evidence to be presented. Be on the lookout for the next updates.