R&B singer Cassie is expected to take the stand as early as Tuesday in the federal sex trafficking trial of Sean "Diddy" Combs, marking a dramatic turn in a case that has rocked the music industry and spotlighted disturbing allegations of long-term abuse and exploitation.
The trial began Monday in Manhattan federal court, where prosecutors accused the 55-year-old music mogul of running a years-long sex trafficking operation built on coercion, violence, and manipulation.
The government alleges Combs used his power and influence to force women into drug-fueled sex parties, described in court as “freak-offs.”
Cassie, whose full name is Casandra Ventura, is a central figure in Combs’ downfall.
She sued him in 2023, alleging years of abuse—claims that gained further traction when surveillance footage surfaced showing Combs violently assaulting her in a Los Angeles hotel in 2016.
The graphic video, which went viral, shows Combs in a towel punching, kicking, and dragging her in a hallway. Jurors viewed the video in court Monday.
Hotel security officer Israel Florez testified that he encountered Combs that night and was offered hush money.
“Don’t tell nobody,” Combs allegedly said while offering a stack of cash. Florez told the jury he declined, replying: “I don’t want your money. Just go back into your room.”
Prosecutor Emily Johnson detailed a pattern of abuse, asserting Combs threatened Cassie’s music career and used sexually explicit videos to control her.
Johnson also described another accuser, “Jane,” whom Combs allegedly assaulted after she objected to the freak-offs.
Combs’ attorney Teny Geragos argued that the sexual encounters were consensual, framing the case as an attack on Combs’ wealth and reputation.
“You might think he’s a jerk,” Geragos told jurors, “but he’s not charged with being a jerk.”
Combs, who has been in Brooklyn detention since his arrest in September, faces 15 years to life if convicted.
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