NEW YORK — On Friday, a woman using the pseudonym “Jane” broke down in court while recounting her experiences during her relationship with Sean “Diddy” Combs. She detailed numerous instances where drug-fueled sexual encounters took place, which she did not consent to. Jane’s testimony outlined how Combs pressured her to continue these activities despite her expressing a desire to stop through indirect cues such as claiming fatigue or hunger and using facial expressions and gestures. Combs, she alleged, dismissed her feelings, instructing her to “finish strong.”
When questioned as to why she hadn’t directly asked him to stop, Jane tearfully admitted uncertainty. She further testified that Combs consistently silenced her efforts to discuss ending these encounters, which she described as “dark” and “sleazy.” The music mogul, now 55, has denied all allegations and pleaded not guilty to charges of running a racketeering enterprise. If found guilty, he could face a sentence ranging from 15 years to life in prison. Combs’ defense maintains that all sexual activities were consensual and do not constitute a criminal enterprise.
Jane’s testimony is closely aligned with previous accounts given by R&B singer Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, another former girlfriend of Combs. Cassie had also described being forced into similar encounters, referencing them as “freak-offs” — a term echoed by Jane, who referred to them as “hotel nights.” The prosecution, led by Maurene Comey, is trying to demonstrate that Combs manipulated and controlled women by leveraging his wealth and power.
Jane revealed that Combs supported her financially, paying her rent for a period starting before her testimony in September 2023. When probed about her fears if she ceased participating in the hotel nights, Jane replied that she feared losing her home. Despite the distressing nature of these experiences, financial dependency on Combs remained a significant concern for her. After one encounter, Jane said she was reprimanded by Combs for crying, to which he responded, “Don’t do that right now,” adding, “I’m too high.” Jane recounted earlier losing consciousness after taking ecstasy provided by Combs.
Her attempts to remain sober during another incident resulted in severe physical illness, yet Combs urged her to continue. Jane acquiesced but expressed feeling “repulsed.” Despite the adverse impacts on her health, including frequent urinary tract infections and persistent pain, Jane reluctantly endured these situations for valued private time with Combs afterward. In heartfelt messages to him, Jane wrote of her emotional turmoil, stating how deeply her involvement with him affected her.
Combs’ defense team is working to undermine the prosecution’s evidence, casting doubt on the testimonies provided. Defense attorney Teny Geragos acknowledged Combs’ aggressive tendencies but characterized the sexual acts as consensual, framing them within the context of a swinger lifestyle. They also argued that Cassie had willingly participated in these encounters, presenting text messages where she purportedly expressed her consent.
The trial also saw Bryana “Bana” Bongolan testify, who alleged being traumatized after Combs held her over a balcony’s edge at a Los Angeles high-rise in 2016. Combs’ legal representation suggested that Bongolan may have fabricated or overstated the account due to inconsistencies with his tour schedule. However, Bongolan stood by her statement, despite not recalling the specific date.
As the trial progresses, the outcome hinges on the credibility of testimonies and the portrayal of Combs’ actions as a criminal enterprise versus consensual adult behavior.