Key Points Summary: Diddy Trial Testimony
- Cassie Ventura expected to testify Monday in Diddy sex-trafficking trial
- Prosecutors say she was forced into “freak-offs” and filmed without consent
- Diddy accused of decades-long abuse and racketeering at Bad Boy Records
- First two witnesses include an escort and another unnamed individual
- Trial includes disturbing footage of Combs attacking Cassie in 2016
- Defense admits abuse but alleges “mutual violence” in their relationship
- Diddy faces life in prison if convicted on all charges
Diddy Trial Testimony Begins With Cassie as Key Witness
The explosive sex-trafficking trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs is set to begin Monday—and his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura will take the stand as one of the first witnesses.
Federal prosecutors say Ventura, 38, will provide emotional testimony detailing how the hip-hop mogul allegedly forced her into drug-fueled sexual encounters, known as “freak-offs,” while he filmed the abuse.
The courtroom drama begins just days after Ventura was spotted in New York, preparing for her moment on the stand.
Federal Judge Delays Jury Finalization
On Friday, Judge Arun Subramanian postponed the final stage of jury selection until Monday, citing juror anxiety about the highly publicized case.
One potential juror even requested removal for “personal well-being.”
Twelve jurors and six alternates will now be sworn in Monday morning, followed immediately by opening statements.
Cassie Among First to Testify
According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Maurene Comey, Ventura will be the prosecution’s third witness. Two others—an escort and a logistics-limited individual—will testify first.
Court documents identify Cassie as “Victim-1,” but sources confirm she will testify using her real name.
Among the evidence is disturbing video footage allegedly showing Diddy kicking and punching Ventura during a 2016 hotel attack.
Abuse Allegations and Leverage Tactics
Ventura’s testimony is expected to cover shocking accusations, including claims that Combs used recorded sex acts to manipulate and control his victims.
The indictment alleges the music mogul operated Bad Boy Records as a “criminal enterprise,” orchestrating kidnappings, assaults, and even an arson.
The Harlem-born artist is also accused of dangling a victim from a balcony.
Defense Admits Abuse—But Calls It Mutual
Diddy’s legal team, led by Marc Agnifilo, plans to admit that Combs physically assaulted Ventura. However, they argue the violence was mutual.
“There was hitting on both sides,” Agnifilo told the court.
The defense sought to introduce Cassie’s alleged violent past to undermine her credibility, but Judge Subramanian rejected that as a “stretch.”
“Strong People Can Be Coerced”
Subramanian pushed back on the claim that Cassie’s strength makes her immune to coercion. “Strong people can be coerced just like weak people,” the judge said.
The court also approved Ventura’s request for bathroom breaks every 90 minutes due to her pregnancy.
Doug Wigdor, Ventura’s civil attorney, was spotted in court Friday and later seen in private talks with prosecutors.
Trial Could Last Two Months
Prosecutors expect the trial to stretch over at least eight weeks.
The charges include racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transporting individuals to engage in prostitution. Diddy has pleaded not guilty.
His defense insists the “freak-offs” were part of a consensual, albeit unconventional, sex life—not criminal behavior.
But if convicted, the music mogul could face life behind bars.
A Trial That Could Reshape the Music Industry
With shocking allegations, celebrity witnesses, and high-stakes implications, the Diddy trial is set to be one of the biggest courtroom battles of the year.
The spotlight is on—and it starts with Cassie.