Dawn Richard testifies about witnessing abuse of Cassie Ventura in Diddy trial

Dawn Richard recounted witnessing Diddy’s violent attack on Cassie Ventura and testified about threats to her safety.

Dawn Richard, a former member of Diddy’s groups Danity Kane and Dirty Money, testified on May 16 in the ongoing federal trial against music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs. Richard provided a detailed account of witnessing alleged abuse directed toward Diddy’s former girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, including a disturbing 2009 incident.

Richard described an altercation at Diddy’s Los Angeles home during a recording session when Diddy became enraged over breakfast. Richard testified that Diddy confronted Cassie, who was cooking eggs, and struck her in the head with a skillet. According to Richard, Cassie attempted to protect herself by curling into a fetal position, but Diddy continued to punch and kick her.

When questioned about why she didn’t call the authorities, Richard explained that she was in shock from the violence she had witnessed and felt fearful for both Cassie and herself. The following day, Diddy allegedly approached Richard to explain the incident, claiming it was a “passionate” lovers' quarrel. However, Richard testified that he also warned her not to speak out, saying, “where he comes from, people go missing if they talk.” Richard interpreted this as a threat to her life.

In addition to her testimony in the trial, Richard has filed a civil lawsuit against Diddy, claiming years of sexual and physical abuse. Her lawsuit alleges that Diddy groped, slapped, and verbally humiliated her, as well as an incident where she was allegedly locked in a car for hours by Diddy’s bodyguard.

Diddy has pleaded not guilty to the federal charges, which include sex trafficking, racketeering, and abuse-related accusations. Richard’s testimony continues on May 19.