Sean "Diddy" Combs allegedly paid for the hotel surveillance footage that captured him assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Casandra "Cassie" Ventura, in 2016. However, he was unaware that Ventura also received a copy, according to his former head of security, Roger Bonds.
Bonds revealed this information in an interview with Piers Morgan Uncensored following the release of the disturbing video by CNN. He stated that Combs paid to obtain the footage after the incident but didn't realise that Ventura had also been given a copy.
Ventura's civil lawsuit, filed in November 2023 and quickly settled, alleged that Combs paid the InterContinental Hotel $50,000 for the footage. The lawsuit also detailed the assault, accusing Combs of rape, sex trafficking, and domestic violence.
In response to the leaked video, Combs issued a public apology on Instagram, taking "full responsibility" for his "inexcusable" behaviour. However, Bonds expressed scepticism about the sincerity of Combs' apology, suggesting that he might only be remorseful because he was caught.
The surveillance video shows Combs grabbing Ventura by the neck, throwing her to the ground, kicking her, and taking her belongings. He then kicks her again, drags her towards a room, lets go, and throws an object at her before walking away.
Ventura's lawsuit described a similar incident, claiming that Combs, in a drunken state, punched her and caused a black eye. She attempted to leave but was followed by Combs, who yelled at her and threw glass vases in her direction.
IHG Hotels, the former management of the InterContinental Hotel, stated that they no longer have access to prior incident records or footage.
Ventura's attorney, Douglas H. Wigdor, emphasised the disturbing nature of the video and commended Ventura's courage in coming forward.
Combs' apology video, posted with the caption "I'm truly sorry," expressed his remorse and acknowledged his past struggles. He stated that he sought professional help and asked for God's mercy and grace. While not asking for forgiveness, he emphasised his commitment to becoming a better man.
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