Cassie Ventura Testifies in Diddy Trial: Key Highlights
NEW YORK – Cassie Ventura, professionally known as Cassie, took the stand on Tuesday at the federal trial concerning Sean “Diddy” Combs. Her testimony detailed years of alleged abuse within their tumultuous relationship, which first came to public attention following a 2023 lawsuit that initiated a federal investigation.
Key Allegations and Testimony
During her testimony, Cassie described her relationship with Diddy, which began when she was 19 and he was 37, as being dominated by a manipulative and drug-fueled environment. She recounted her experiences, including a specific incident referred to as a “freak off,” a term she previously outlined in her lawsuit.
Pregnant Cassie Ventura is sworn in before testifying (Sketches by Jane Rosenberg)
Descriptions of Control and Abuse
Cassie, who is expecting her third child with husband Alex Fine, stated that Diddy created an environment of control over her life, influencing everything from her professional decisions to her personal appearance. “Sean controlled a lot of my life, whether it was career, the way I dressed, everything,” she claimed during her testimony.
Evidence and Witness Accounts
The jury was presented with significant evidence, including a 2016 surveillance video showing Diddy allegedly assaulting Cassie in a hotel hallway. Cassie’s account of this incident was part of a broader narrative of abuse, which included violent arguments that devolved into physical altercations.
Security Guard’s Testimony
Israel Florez, a security guard at the hotel, testified on Monday about witnessing Diddy’s actions after allegedly attacking Cassie. Florez described Diddy’s demeanor as having a “devilish stare.” He recounted how Cassie attempted to leave but was stopped by Diddy, who then allegedly tried to bribe Florez into silence.
Controversial ‘Freak Offs’
Cassie elaborated on the so-called “freak offs,” describing them as coerced sexual encounters involving drug use and commercial sex workers. She claimed these events often lasted for days and took a toll on her physical and mental health. “Freak offs became a job where there was no space to do anything else but to recover and just try to feel normal again,” she remarked.
Cassie Ventura testifies in court as Diddy watches on May 13, 2025.
Diddy’s Plea and Defense Strategy
Diddy, now 55, has pleaded not guilty to the allegations. His defense team argues that while his behavior may have been violent, the relationship between Diddy and Cassie was consensual. They assert that the trial represents a misuse of the law, characterizing the actions as consensual adult interactions rather than criminal offenses.
Prosecutor’s Focus
Throughout her questioning, prosecutor Emily Johnson zeroed in on the theme of control in Cassie’s relationship with Diddy, often prompting her to clarify who made decisions during their encounters, with Cassie consistently responding, “Sean.”
Conclusion
The trial continues to unfold, with Cassie resuming her testimony following a break. The outcomes of the proceedings remain in the public eye, reflecting broader issues regarding power dynamics and abuse in the entertainment industry.
Next Steps
As the trial progresses, updates will continue to be reported, detailing the implications and ongoing testimonies from witnesses involved.
