Key Points Summary: Diddy Trial

• Diddy trial opens with bombshell accusations of abuse
• Prosecutor outlines 20 years of alleged sex crimes and violence
• Graphic hotel surveillance video shown four times in court
• Cassie expected to testify about years of physical, sexual abuse
• Second witness claims he was paid for sex with Cassie as Diddy watched
• Defense calls case “love, jealousy, infidelity and money”
• Diddy faces 15 years to life if convicted

Sean “Diddy” Combs may be known for building a music empire. But federal prosecutors say behind the fame stood a man who ruled through fear, violence, and sex trafficking.

On Monday, the explosive trial of Diddy began in Manhattan. Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson delivered a damning opening statement. “You will hear about 20 years of the defendant’s crimes,” she told the jury.

Prosecutors Unleash Shocking Allegations

Johnson accused Combs of kidnapping, arson, bribery, drugs, and sex trafficking. At the center are disturbing sex parties called “freak-offs”—events Combs allegedly ran using drugs, threats, and violence.

She said Combs recorded these encounters and used the tapes to control victims.

First Witness: Brutal Beating of Cassie Caught on Video

The first witness, Israel Florez, testified about a violent 2016 incident. Surveillance footage, shown four times, captured Combs kicking and dragging Cassie, his longtime girlfriend, in a Los Angeles hotel.

Florez, now an LAPD officer, recalled Combs in a towel with a “devilish stare.” When Florez intervened, Combs allegedly tried to bribe him with a wad of cash. “Don’t tell nobody,” Combs said. Florez refused the money.

Second Witness: Paid to Perform for Diddy

Another witness, Daniel Phillip, a former stripper, testified that Combs paid him up to $6,000 to have sex with Cassie while he watched and directed. He stopped after seeing Combs throw a bottle at her and drag her by the hair.

“That was it for me,” Phillip said.

Cassie Expected to Testify Next

Cassie, real name Casandra Ventura, is expected to take the stand. She sued Combs in 2023, accusing him of rape and abuse. The suit settled in hours but sparked a federal investigation.

Johnson said another woman, referred to as Jane, also suffered beatings. In one case, Combs allegedly choked and assaulted her after she confronted him.

Defense: Jealous, Yes. But Not a Criminal

Combs’ lawyer, Teny Geragos, admitted Combs could be jealous and angry. “But domestic violence is not sex trafficking,” she argued.

She described Diddy as “complicated” but not a criminal mastermind. “This case is about love, jealousy, infidelity, and money,” she said.

Geragos claimed the accusers were after payouts. She said Cassie demanded $30 million and another witness sought $22 million.

Inside the Courtroom Drama

Combs, 55, appeared composed, smiling and greeting his legal team. His mother and children attended but left during graphic testimony.

The courtroom drew crowds, with lines stretching down the block. The trial is expected to last two months.

Combs pleaded not guilty to five charges. A conviction could lead to life in prison.

Sex, Power, and Control

Prosecutors allege Combs bankrolled the sex parties in luxury hotels across the U.S. and abroad. His staff reportedly arranged lighting, drugs, sheets, and lubricant.

Combs allegedly punished women for minor offenses like leaving a “freak-off” without permission or taking too long in the bathroom.

He threatened to release sex tapes if they disobeyed. “Her livelihood depended on keeping him happy,” Johnson said of Cassie.

A Trial That Could Shatter an Empire

This trial could redefine Diddy’s legacy. Once untouchable, he now sits in a Brooklyn jail.

His lawyers say this is about lifestyle—not crime. But prosecutors believe the videos, witnesses, and testimonies tell a different story.

As court continues, the world watches: Will Diddy walk—or fall for good?