Sean 'Diddy' Combs Faces Federal Trial on Sex Trafficking and Abuse Charges
- The New York Editorial Desk - Arif
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Tone & Political Bias: Center
Why: The reporting focuses on factual courtroom developments and witness testimony without political framing or editorializing.
Overview
Music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs is currently on trial in Manhattan federal court, facing multiple charges including sex trafficking, racketeering, and coercion. The trial began on May 12, 2025, following jury selection on May 5. Combs has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Key Witness: Cassie Ventura
Cassie Ventura, a singer and former long-term partner of Combs, is a central figure in the prosecution's case. She testified over two days, describing a decade-long relationship allegedly marked by physical abuse, sexual coercion, and psychological manipulation.
Ventura claimed she was forced into drug-fueled sexual encounters, known as "freak offs," which were allegedly orchestrated and filmed by Combs. She also recounted incidents of violence, including a 2016 hotel altercation caught on surveillance video, and said Combs threatened her with blackmail using explicit recordings.
Defense Strategy
Combs’ legal team, led by attorney Anna Estevao, argued that the relationship was consensual and characterized by a "swingers lifestyle." During cross-examination, Ventura was asked to read explicit messages aloud to support the defense's claim of mutual consent. The defense maintains that the sexual activities were agreed upon by both parties and that the allegations have severely damaged Combs’ public image.
Additional Allegations and Evidence
Prosecutors presented further evidence to show a broader pattern of abuse. This includes testimonies from other alleged victims and the results of federal raids on Combs’ properties. Items seized reportedly included weapons, ammunition, and large quantities of lubricants. The prosecution alleges that Combs used his industry power to exploit women, orchestrating drug-fueled events involving coerced sex acts.
Legal Background
In November 2023, Cassie Ventura filed a civil lawsuit against Combs under New York’s Adult Survivors Act, accusing him of rape and long-term abuse. The case was settled for $20 million within 24 hours. However, the lawsuit sparked a federal investigation, which led to Combs’ arrest in September 2024. He has remained in custody since then, with bail denied over concerns that he could intimidate witnesses.
Trial Proceedings
The trial is expected to last around eight weeks. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian is presiding over the case. The courtroom has heard emotional testimony, particularly from Ventura, about alleged abuse and manipulation. The defense continues to challenge the credibility of the witnesses and disputes the nature of the relationships described.
Potential Consequences
If convicted, Combs could face life in prison. The trial has drawn major public and media attention due to Combs’ high profile and the serious nature of the allegations. More testimony and evidence are expected as the case proceeds.
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