Everything the Jury Has Heard: A Full Recap of the Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Trial So Far

By Trinity Barnette

Day 1 – May 12, 2025

Opening Statements, Graphic Allegations, and Two Key Witnesses Set the Tone

The trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs officially began on May 12, 2025, in a federal courtroom in New York. Combs faced multiple serious charges, including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and the transportation of individuals for prostitution. If convicted on all counts, he could spend the rest of his life in prison.

The day kicked off with opening statements from both sides, each offering starkly different portrayals of Combs and the events at the heart of the case.

Prosecution’s Opening: A Dark Double Life

Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson told the jury they would see a version of Combs far removed from his public image. According to Johnson, Combs operated a criminal network with the help of close associates who enabled and concealed his behavior. She alleged that Combs used the resources of his businesses to manipulate and exploit multiple women—most notably, his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura.

Johnson claimed Combs coerced Ventura and others into participating in disturbing multi-day sex events, dubbed “Freak Offs,” where women were drugged and forced to engage in unwanted sexual acts—sometimes with male escorts. These encounters were allegedly recorded and used as blackmail. The prosecution signaled that much of their case would focus on the experiences of Ventura and another woman, who would testify under the pseudonym “Jane.”

Defense’s Opening: Violence, Yes—But Not a Crime Syndicate

In response, Combs’ attorney, Teny Geragos, acknowledged his violent behavior but insisted that the case was being wrongly framed. Geragos argued that while the jury might find Combs’ private sexual life uncomfortable, it was not criminal. She described the 2016 assault of Ventura—captured on video and widely circulated—as “indefensible,” but maintained it was a case of domestic violence, not sex trafficking. Geragos also pointed to Ventura’s long-term relationship with Combs, emphasizing that she remained with him by choice for over a decade before eventually walking away.

First Witness: Hotel Security Testifies About 2016 Incident

The prosecution called LAPD Officer Israel Florez, who worked hotel security at the InterContinental Hotel in Los Angeles in March 2016. He described responding to a report of a woman in distress and encountering Combs and Ventura in the elevator area. Florez testified that he escorted the pair back to their room, and once there, Combs attempted to hand him a wad of cash—an act Florez interpreted as a bribe. He refused the money. Later, he observed Ventura leaving with a visible black eye. Although Florez filed a report internally, he said he did not call law enforcement at the time because no one had officially reported the incident.

Second Witness: A Male Escort Describes His Encounters

The second witness, Daniel Phillip, ran a male revue business and testified that he was paid to engage in sex with Ventura in 2012. He recalled an incident in which he performed sex acts with her while Combs watched from a corner, masturbating and giving directions. According to Phillip, these encounters were often filmed, and Combs insisted on the use of baby oil. Phillip also said Combs once photographed his driver’s license, claiming it was for insurance purposes—an act Phillip believed was intended to intimidate him.

Phillip concluded his testimony by recounting a violent episode in which he witnessed Combs dragging Ventura by her hair at her home. He chose not to report the abuse, fearing for his own safety.

Day 2 – May 13, 2025

Cassie Ventura Testifies About Abuse, Control, and the Horrors of the “Freak Offs”

On the second day of testimony in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal criminal trial, the courtroom heard directly from one of the case’s most central figures: Cassie Ventura. The singer and former longtime girlfriend of Combs took the stand to deliver deeply personal, emotional, and at times graphic testimony about the alleged abuse, control, and sexual coercion she endured during their relationship.

Relationship Beginnings and Early Red Flags

Ventura began her testimony by explaining how she met Combs at just 19 years old, when she was newly signed to Bad Boy Records. Their connection started off platonic, but she recalled feeling confused when Combs kissed her in Las Vegas on her 21st birthday. While she described him as fun and charismatic, she also noted the imbalance of power—stating clearly that he held full control over both her career and personal life. “He called all the shots,” she said.

Allegations of Physical Abuse

According to Ventura, the relationship became physically violent. She told the jury that Combs would hit her in the head, knock her down, drag her, and even kick or stomp on her. She described his mood swings and controlling behavior, including incessant phone calls and sending staff to track her down if she didn’t respond.

The First “Freak Offs” and Sexual Coercion

Ventura testified that Combs began introducing sexual scenarios early on in their relationship—what he referred to as “voyeurism,” where he would watch her have sex with another man. She said she didn’t feel like she could say no. Eventually, this escalated into what Combs called “Freak Offs”—multi-day drug-fueled sexual encounters involving escorts and male performers, during which she was not allowed to sleep until Combs said it was over.

She testified that these events followed a strict and disturbing routine: Combs would direct every detail, from who was involved to what they wore. “I felt disgusting. I was humiliated,” Ventura told the jury. “I didn’t have the words to describe how horrible I felt, and I couldn’t talk to anyone about it.” She said she often used drugs to mentally escape the experience.

Extreme Control Over Her Body and Image

Ventura also spoke about Combs’ obsession with her appearance, saying he controlled her clothing, hair, and even nail choices—especially for the “Freak Offs.” If she disobeyed him or failed to meet his expectations, staff would confiscate her belongings. In some of the most disturbing testimony, Ventura said that Combs would urinate on her or ask escorts to do so. “I didn’t want anyone to urinate on me,” she said. “I felt humiliated.”

Logistics of the “Freak Offs”

Ventura described how Combs relied on aliases when booking hotels and dancers. Sometimes she was instructed to make the arrangements herself, including scouting escorts. He had specific physical preferences and demanded approval before anyone could participate. She said she was also told to verify that potential escorts weren’t undercover police. According to Ventura, these events happened in multiple states and often involved coordinating travel with Combs’ staff or hired agents.

The 2016 Hotel Assault

The jury had already seen surveillance footage of a 2016 altercation between Ventura and Combs at the InterContinental Hotel. Ventura provided context for that video, saying the incident occurred when she attempted to leave a “Freak Off” before Combs considered it finished. She said he assaulted her, and she ran from the room “as fast as I could.”

Ventura is expected to return to the stand the following day for continued direct examination.

Day 3 – May 14, 2025

Cassie Breaks Down on the Stand, Describes Rape, Violence, and the Fallout of Speaking Out

Cassie Ventura returned to the witness stand for a second full day of testimony, offering even more harrowing insight into her years-long relationship with Sean “Diddy” Combs. Her account built upon prior claims of physical and sexual abuse, deepening the jury’s understanding of what prosecutors allege was a pattern of coercion, violence, and psychological torment.

Physical Abuse and Psychological Control

Ventura described multiple violent episodes, starting with the first time Combs allegedly assaulted her—an incident that left her “shocked.” She recalled being beaten after a night out at a Los Angeles club, chased by Combs’ security when she tried to escape, and, in one of the most disturbing revelations, raped by Combs in her own living room in 2018. She testified that she often felt trapped, not just emotionally but physically, citing his access to firearms and his repeated threats. Even after their relationship ended, she said, the threats continued.

Abuse Beyond the Relationship

Cassie also testified that Combs’ violent behavior extended beyond her. She said she witnessed him physically attack employees, including punching one individual in the head. In one particularly chilling moment, Ventura described Combs holding her friend over the edge of a balcony at her Los Angeles apartment in the early morning hours. That moment, she said, contributed to the unraveling of a 17-year friendship with her best friend.

The Kid Cudi Incident

Ventura told the jury that in 2011, during a “Freak Off,” Combs discovered she had been seeing rapper Kid Cudi. In response, she said he lunged at her with a wine opener and warned that Kid Cudi’s car would be “blown up.” According to Ventura, that threat materialized—at some point later, Cudi’s car did in fact explode.

Others Who Witnessed the Abuse

Ventura testified that from early in their relationship, members of Combs’ inner circle witnessed his violent outbursts. His driver and security guards allegedly saw physical assaults, and in later years, assistants—including one named “Mia”—were also present during incidents of abuse. Some of them, Ventura said, even quit because they couldn’t bear to watch what was happening to her.

Drug Dependence and Seeking Help

Throughout her time with Combs, Ventura said she became heavily dependent on opiates. She tried to seek treatment five or six times during the relationship. She told the court she last used drugs in 2022 and is now clean.

The Emotional Toll

One of the most emotional moments came when Ventura broke down while describing her recovery journey. She testified that during a 2023 music video shoot with another artist, she began having flashbacks and had to check herself into rehab. She also shared that she struggled with suicidal ideation during that time and sought trauma therapy to begin healing.

The $20 Million Settlement

Ventura confirmed that after filing a civil lawsuit against Combs in November 2023, she received a $20 million settlement. Her decision to pursue criminal accountability, however, underscores the case’s broader implications beyond financial compensation.

The defense is scheduled to begin cross-examination the following day, with expectations that it will continue into Friday.

Day 4 – May 15, 2025

Cross-Examination Intensifies: Cassie Faces Questions About Consent, Communication, and Emotional Complexity

Cassie Ventura returned to the witness stand for a third day, this time fielding questions from Sean “Diddy” Combs’ defense team. The court session was marked by emotionally complex exchanges, as the defense presented messages from throughout the relationship in an effort to paint Ventura as a willing participant rather than a coerced victim. The judge urged both sides to conclude her testimony by Friday, citing Ventura’s advanced pregnancy.

Exploring the Relationship’s Origins

Under cross-examination, Ventura acknowledged that she once believed she loved Combs—and that she thought he loved her back. The defense used this sentiment to introduce early text messages that highlighted affection and emotional closeness, including conversations about trust and sexual boundaries. When asked whether her desire to please Combs extended to participation in “Freak Offs,” Ventura replied, “There’s a lot more to that.”

Text Messages Used by the Defense

The jury reviewed a series of emails and texts exchanged between Ventura and Combs, including graphic and intimate messages from as far back as 2009. Some of these appeared to show open discussion and a degree of comfort around the orchestrated sexual encounters. In one exchange, Ventura said she needed to “feel safe” to be more sexually open. However, other texts reflected growing discomfort—she described a recent “Freak Off” as making her feel “dirty and grimy,” contrasting it with earlier experiences when their connection felt more genuine.

The defense also introduced a 2017 message in which Ventura said, “I love our [Freak Offs] when we both want it.” Ventura told the jury those words were hollow by then—just something she said to get through the situation.

Legal experts noted the defense strategy aimed to suggest that Ventura was not forced into anything against her will. By highlighting moments of perceived consent and emotional intimacy, the team sought to undermine the prosecution’s framing of Ventura as a victim of manipulation and sexual exploitation.

Jealousy, Control, and Double Standards

Ventura also spoke about tensions over Combs’ other romantic relationships, particularly with a woman named Gina and with the late Kim Porter, who shared three children with Combs. Ventura admitted to having feelings of jealousy, but also described how Combs projected similar suspicions onto her. She said he was controlling about her interactions with other men and that she took steps to shield rapper Kid Cudi from Combs’ wrath.

Substance Use and Emotional Volatility

Ventura confirmed that drug use was a major factor in their relationship, explaining that both she and Combs used substances frequently. She testified that Combs would become angry or erratic when he discovered she had used drugs without him, or with other people. The defense suggested that Combs’ emotional volatility may have been tied to opiate dependence and withdrawal.

Countdown to Delivery

Judge Arun Subramanian informed the attorneys that he expected cross-examination to conclude the following morning. Prosecutors expressed concern that Ventura—who is heavily pregnant—might go into labor over the weekend. The pressure to complete her testimony added emotional weight to the day’s proceedings, as her presence on the stand has become central to the prosecution’s narrative.

Day 5 – May 16, 2025

Cassie’s Final Words, a Former Protégé Speaks, and Hotel Evidence Emerges

After nearly 20 hours of testimony over four days, Cassie Ventura concluded her time on the stand—an emotional and pivotal moment in the trial. As prosecutors shifted focus to new witnesses, they continued building their case around patterns of abuse, intimidation, and sexual exploitation.

Cassie’s Final Day on the Stand

Ventura closed out her testimony with a powerful statement: she would give up the $20 million civil settlement she received if it meant she had never endured what Combs called “Freak Offs.” Her voice cracked as she described the shame and emotional toll of those encounters. She stood firm under cross-examination, maintaining that the orchestrated sexual performances, often fueled by drugs and coercion, left her traumatized.

Testimony from Homeland Security

Next on the stand was Yasin Binda, a Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agent specializing in human trafficking. Binda detailed the September 2024 search of Combs’ hotel suite at the Park Hyatt, where she oversaw his arrest. The jury was shown photographs of several items recovered from the room, painting a disturbing picture:

• Two large Ziploc bags filled with Johnson’s baby oil and Astroglide lubricant were found in an entryway closet.

• More bottles were scattered around the suite, including in the bathroom and on the nightstand.

• A Louis Vuitton bag on the nightstand contained a prescription bottle labeled “Frank Black”—an alias prosecutors say Combs used. The medication was clonazepam, a benzodiazepine commonly prescribed for anxiety or seizures.

• Two bags of pink powder also tested positive for ketamine and MDMA.

Binda testified that it appeared a woman had been staying in the hotel room with Combs at the time.

Danity Kane’s Dawn Richard Takes the Stand

In a highly anticipated appearance, singer and former Danity Kane member Dawn Richard gave chilling testimony about an incident she witnessed in 2009. Richard recounted a violent outburst in the kitchen of Combs’ home, where he allegedly tried to strike Ventura with a skillet. She then watched as Combs dragged Ventura upstairs by her hair. From where she stood, she could hear glass shattering and screaming.

Richard admitted that fear kept her silent. “I was scared to do anything in fear of what that might mean for me, too,” she told the jury. The following day, Combs invited her and another woman to his house and attempted to downplay the violence, claiming it was “passion” between lovers and that it would be in their “best interest” not to speak about what they saw.

Day 6 – May 19, 2025

Friends, Witnesses, and Assistants Reveal the Depth of Control

As the prosecution continued to build its case against Sean “Diddy” Combs, three new witnesses testified—each offering chilling insight into Combs’ alleged pattern of violence, control, and coercion. Their statements reinforced the themes that have dominated the trial so far: fear, power imbalance, and emotional manipulation.

Dawn Richard Returns

Singer and former Danity Kane member Dawn Richard returned to the stand, expanding on her prior testimony. She told the jury that Combs’ violent behavior was not an isolated occurrence—she “frequently” witnessed it throughout her time around him and Ventura.

• Richard testified that she often saw visible injuries on Ventura’s face, arms, and legs after alleged attacks. Ventura, she said, would try to conceal the bruises with clothing, sunglasses, or makeup.

• She recounted how Combs became physically aggressive during conversations about Ventura’s music career, often declaring that her success would happen on his timeline.

• When asked why she initially stayed silent, Richard said she was afraid, and that both Combs and former Bad Boy Records president Harve Pierre instructed her not to speak.

• Ultimately, she said it was Ventura’s courage that inspired her to testify. She also noted that she often saw Combs take drugs, including cocaine, ketamine, and weed—though not opiates.

Kerry Morgan, Former Best Friend

Next on the stand was Kerry Morgan, who described herself as Ventura’s best friend from 2001 to 2018. Their friendship ended, she said, after Combs assaulted her.

• Morgan testified that Combs physically assaulted her in 2018, the same year their friendship ended. Afterward, he allegedly sent her money and had her sign an NDA.

• She said she personally witnessed two violent incidents between Combs and Ventura and described Ventura as having once been confident—until years with Combs eroded that completely.

• Morgan said Combs regularly criticized Ventura’s appearance and social behavior, and controlled every aspect of her life. “Her job, her car, her apartment—he controlled everything,” she told the court.

• She also testified that she had urged Ventura to report Combs to police after the 2016 hotel incident, but Ventura declined, reportedly saying she couldn’t leave because “he controlled everything.”

David James, Former Assistant

The final witness of the day was David James, a former assistant to Combs who traveled the world with him and worked closely with his team. His testimony will continue into Day 7, but his opening statements added another layer to the prosecution’s narrative.

• James said he was told by Combs’ security team to “stay in [his] lane,” especially if he began asking too many questions about what was happening around him.

• He recalled a conversation with Ventura in which she said, “Man, this lifestyle is crazy.” When he encouraged her to walk away from it, she reportedly replied, “I can’t. I can’t get out.”

• According to James, Ventura explained that Combs paid for her apartment, gave her an allowance, and had total control over her music career.

The day ended with James still on the stand, signaling more insider testimony to come as the case built toward a more detailed picture of Combs’ alleged domination over those closest to him.

Day 7 – May 20, 2025

From Escorts to Homeland Security: New Witnesses Shed Light on Combs’ Private World

Testimony in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal trial continued with a wide range of voices taking the stand—including a former assistant, a male escort, and Cassie Ventura’s mother. Later in the day, a Homeland Security agent revealed new details from the 2024 raid on Combs’ Miami Beach mansion, painting a picture of a life tightly controlled, closely watched, and filled with disturbing contradictions.

David James Continues Testifying

Former assistant David James returned to the stand, continuing to offer insight into Combs’ inner circle. James described:

• Seeing Combs frequently use drugs,

• Being tasked with preparing hotel rooms, which included stocking them with specific items in advance of alleged “Freak Offs,”

• And undergoing intimidating lie detector tests and invasive searches, which he implied were part of Combs’ efforts to maintain control over those around him.

Cassie’s Mother, Regina Ventura, Speaks Out

In one of the more emotional testimonies of the day, Regina Ventura, Cassie’s mother, shared her experiences watching her daughter slowly vanish into a relationship that changed everything.

• Regina testified that once her daughter began dating Combs, their contact became less frequent and more strained.

• She described a moment when she felt compelled to document her daughter’s condition in a photo, noting Cassie appeared to be in distress.

• In a particularly telling moment, she said she once took out a home equity loan just to give Combs $20,000, a sum he demanded from her personally.

Escort Sharay Hayes Takes the Stand

Sharay Hayes, a male escort, testified about his involvement in what Combs referred to as “Freak Offs.” His account provided a rare glimpse into how these events were orchestrated from an outsider’s perspective.

• Hayes said he was hired to “create a sexy scene” with Cassie for Combs’ enjoyment.

• Under cross-examination, he said he didn’t sense discomfort from Ventura during these encounters, emphasizing that as an exotic performer, he’s trained to read energy in a room.

• Hayes claimed he never saw violence or filming take place and that he was offered alcohol and marijuana but never saw Combs use drugs himself.

• He recalled that his final encounter with the couple was in 2016, when he failed to perform. He was not invited back after that, though Ventura thanked him and paid him before he left.

Homeland Security Agent Gerard Gannon Testifies

The day closed with direct testimony from Gerard Gannon, a special agent with Homeland Security Investigations. Gannon played a lead role in the 2024 raid of Combs’ Miami Beach property, part of the ongoing federal sex trafficking investigation.

• Gannon testified that the search involved 80 to 90 federal agents due to the size of the estate and the need to navigate armed security on-site.

• The jury was shown photos from the raid, including images from Combs’ primary bedroom closet, where agents recovered:

  • High heels, lingerie, sex toys, baby oil, and lubricant

  • And parts of AR-15 rifles, specifically upper and lower receivers

Court adjourned with Gannon still on the stand. His testimony was scheduled to resume the following morning.

Day 8 – May 21, 2025

Inside the Machine: A Psychologist, A Reluctant Assistant, and the Quiet Power of Control

The eighth day of testimony in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal racketeering and sex-trafficking trial pulled the curtain back even further on the systems that kept Combs’ world moving—and the people caught in its grip. The jury heard from three new witnesses: a psychologist specializing in trauma, a former executive assistant who was compelled to testify under immunity, and briefly, a reminder that rapper Kid Cudi is expected to testify soon, given his past relationship with Cassie Ventura.

Dr. Dawn Hughes Offers Expert Context on Abuse and Trauma

Board-certified clinical and forensic psychologist Dr. Dawn Hughes was called as a “blind expert,” meaning she had not evaluated any party in the case directly but offered broader context about abuse and trauma dynamics.

• Hughes explained that many victims stay in abusive relationships due to trauma bonds, financial dependence, or emotional manipulation. Delays in disclosure and hesitation to leave are both common and rooted in psychological survival mechanisms.

• During cross-examination, defense attorney Jonathan Bach attempted to cast Hughes as biased, pointing to her frequent work with prosecutors and her past training of victim advocates funded by the Department of Justice.

• Bach also questioned Hughes about the number of times she met with prosecutors—six in total—including some meetings held during the trial. Hughes denied ever being given details about the specifics of the Combs case.

• Ironically, Assistant U.S. Attorney Mitzi Steiner confirmed that Hughes had previously been retained by Combs’ own defense attorney, Brian Steel, in an unrelated case—although Hughes never testified in that instance.

George Kaplan Takes the Stand After Immunity Order

After initially invoking his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination, George Kaplan, a former executive assistant to Combs, was compelled to testify by court order under a grant of immunity. What followed was a detailed account of life inside Combs’ chaotic, high-pressure orbit.

• Kaplan testified that he regularly worked 80 to 100 hours a week, often until dawn, for a salary of about $125,000. He communicated with Combs constantly, via calls, texts, and emails—handling requests that ranged from dinner orders to drugs and electronics.

• According to Kaplan, Combs would threaten his job almost monthly, including once getting in his face over a minor mistake at the store.

• When Combs traveled—frequently between cities like New York, Miami, Atlanta, D.C., and Orlando—Kaplan either flew with him or ahead of him to prepare hotel rooms. These rooms were stocked with an assortment of specific items: clothing, speakers, candles, alcohol, baby oil, and lubricant.

• Kaplan said part of his role was to protect Combs’ image. After Combs would leave a hotel, Kaplan was expected to clean up, often finding empty liquor bottles, used sports drinks, and baby oil scattered across the room. On one occasion, he had to wipe up what he described as a “brown crystallized powder.”

• He also admitted to picking up drugs for Combs on at least two occasions—once MDMA in Miami, and another time in L.A., though he wasn’t told what the second substance was.

• Kaplan is expected to continue testifying the following day.

As the trial progresses, the prosecution continues to lay bare the complex web of people—some willing, some reluctant—who helped maintain Combs’ lifestyle and allegedly enabled his abuse of power.

Day 9 – May 22, 2025

Hotel Records, Hacked Laptops, and a Brutal Grammy Weekend

The ninth day of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex-trafficking and racketeering trial closed out the first two weeks of testimony before a break for Memorial Day weekend. Court adjourned early, but not before the jury heard from multiple witnesses—each revealing new layers of violence, control, and cover-up surrounding Combs’ alleged behavior.

Judge Arun Subramanian released the jury with a stern warning: no media, no conversations, no internet deep dives about the case during the holiday break.

Kid Cudi Testifies About His Relationship with Cassie Ventura

Though limited in scope, Kid Cudi’s testimony offered insight into his brief romantic involvement with Ventura—one that allegedly sparked Combs’ obsessive jealousy. His appearance underscored how controlling Combs could be toward Ventura, even regarding her personal relationships with other men.

Digital Forensics Paint a Complicated Picture

Joshua Croft, a Homeland Security computer forensics agent, detailed his attempts to recover data from three of Ventura’s laptops:

• One laptop had been wiped to factory settings.

• Another was locked with a user profile under the alias “Frank Black”—the same name found on a clonazepam bottle recovered during a search of Combs’ belongings.

• A third laptop was so damaged it wouldn’t power on, with visible dents and bends, suggesting possible intentional destruction.

Luxury Hotel Staff Reveal Disturbing Guest Notes

Frederic Zemmour, general manager of the upscale L’Ermitage Hotel in Beverly Hills, walked the jury through Combs’ decade-long hotel record. What began as a standard reservation under “Sean Combs” in 2006 had morphed into aliases like Jackie Star (2009) and Ryan Lopez (2019), with several other name changes in between.

Internal hotel notes about Combs included:

• “Please monitor outside his room / down the hall to spray air freshener.”

• “ALWAYS spills candle wax on everything and uses excessive amounts of oil. Place the room out of order upon departure for deep cleaning.”

• “Please authorize an extra $1000 when guest stays with us to cover any room damages.”

The entries painted a picture of hotel staff bracing themselves for chaos—expected damage, heavy cleanup, and secrecy.

Mylah Morales Recalls Grammy Weekend Violence

Makeup artist Mylah Morales, who worked with both Combs and Ventura, shared harrowing testimony about a night in 2010 that left her rattled and Ventura injured.

• Morales said she and Ventura returned to a hotel room after a party at Prince’s house during Grammy weekend. Combs allegedly stormed in, closed the door behind him, and soon there was screaming.

• When Combs exited, Ventura was left battered—with a swollen eye, busted lip, and knots on her head. Morales took Ventura to her own home, cared for her, and had a doctor friend check her injuries. The doctor recommended going to the ER. Ventura refused.

• Morales admitted she never called the police—she was scared for her life. The two never spoke about that night again.

• Under cross-examination, Morales confirmed she’s spoken to at least eight media outlets about Combs in the past year, including CNN in May 2024. She said she was never paid for any interview and didn’t go public until over a decade later.

With these testimonies, prosecutors continued to demonstrate the breadth of Combs’ control—over people, places, and even digital evidence—and how deeply it impacted those around him.

Day 10 – May 27, 2025

One Witness, One Career Destroyed: Capricorn Clark’s Emotional Testimony

The tenth day of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal racketeering and sex-trafficking trial slowed to a single witness—but what it lacked in volume, it made up for in emotional weight. The jury heard from Capricorn Clark, a former Bad Boy employee who had a close working relationship with both Combs and Cassie Ventura.

Her testimony touched on industry dynamics, personal fallout, and the power imbalance that followed her even after she left Combs’ orbit.

Clark’s Complicated History with Cassie Ventura

On the stand, Clark acknowledged that her relationship with Ventura shifted over time. What started off friendly became tense around 2008, when Ventura—by then known as Combs’ girlfriend—began to exhibit what Clark described as more “bravado.”

“She went from being a sweet model to a feisty girlfriend,” Clark said, implying that Ventura’s growing closeness to Combs changed the power dynamic between them.

Despite describing Ventura’s live performances as underwhelming, Clark said she still believed Cassie had genuine talent and immense industry support, particularly between 2007 and 2012. Even as new artists like Machine Gun Kelly and French Montana joined the label and gained momentum, Cassie remained one of Bad Boy’s most prioritized acts.

By 2016, Clark was working as Ventura’s creative director and oversaw a bold transformation for the MTV Video Music Awards, where Ventura debuted neon yellow hair. Clark testified that the hairstyle change was entirely Ventura’s choice—emphasizing that she wasn’t forced or coerced into the look.

Emails, Regret, and Emotional Breakdown

The courtroom grew tense as Clark began crying while discussing emails she sent Combs in 2014 and 2015, begging for his forgiveness. She believed her 2012 firing was not truly due to a vacation, as claimed, but because of her knowledge of Cassie’s brief relationship with Kid Cudi—a subject that had reportedly sparked Combs’ rage.

Clark described herself as someone who had once been a “protector” to Combs, saying he had no one else who genuinely looked out for him without an agenda.

Career Blacklisted, Voice Silenced

Under redirect, Clark testified about a settlement agreement she reached with Combs after her termination. The deal required both parties to refrain from speaking negatively about each other, and Combs was supposed to write her a letter of recommendation. According to Clark, he never did.

She attempted to stay in the entertainment business but found herself unable to land consistent work.

“At this level of business, he holds all the power as it related to me,” she said.

The judge struck parts of this testimony from the record after sustaining defense objections—particularly around the topic of being “blacklisted.” But the implication remained clear: Clark felt exiled from the industry she once thrived in, and she traced that exile directly to her former boss.

Though only one witness took the stand on Day 10, her testimony added a devastating layer to the prosecution’s portrait of a man who not only exerted power in private relationships—but also crushed careers in silence.

Prosecutors plan to call four new witnesses when the trial resumes tomorrow, including an LAPD officer, an LAFD investigator, alleged victim “Mia,” and former associate Deonte Nash.

Day 11 – May 28, 2025

Threats, Bruises, and the “Freak Offs”: Stylist Deonte Nash Takes the Stand

The eleventh day of testimony in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex-trafficking trial brought explosive allegations from celebrity stylist Deonte Nash, a longtime friend of Cassie Ventura. Nash painted a chilling picture of violence, coercion, and control behind the scenes of Combs’ glamorous empire—delivering some of the most graphic secondhand accounts yet.

As Ventura recovered from the birth of her third child, Nash filled in more disturbing blanks from the years she spent under Combs’ thumb.

A Pattern of Threats and Control

Nash told the jury that Combs routinely threatened Cassie’s music career, threatening to bury her professionally and even release sexually explicit videos of her to damage her reputation—or worse, send them to her parents’ employers. The threats, Nash said, were not empty.

He also described two separate incidents of physical violence he personally witnessed: In one, Combs allegedly hit and kicked Ventura until her head was bleeding. Nash recalled Combs panicking at the sight of the blood. In another incident during a 2013 music video shoot, Combs allegedly threw Nash himself onto a parked car.

Nash testified that Combs had also been physically aggressive toward him at other times—once hitting him on the back of the head and in another moment, grabbing him by the shirt. When asked why he never reported the abuse, Nash answered plainly: he feared retaliation.

A Disturbing Search for Cassie

Nash recounted an unsettling event where Combs stormed through his home looking for Ventura, even checking bizarre places like the oven. Eventually, Combs forced Nash to take him to Ventura, who was hiding out at a nearby hotel. After leaving the hotel, Nash realized a car was following him, and he felt unsafe staying in his own home. When he returned, personal belongings were missing, he testified.

The “Freak Offs” and the Duffel Bag

According to Nash, Combs and Ventura made weekly trips to hotels, with Cassie always packing a black duffel bag filled with sex toys beforehand. Nash said Ventura confided in him that she didn’t want to go, but still did because “he wanted her to.”

One of those hotel nights fell on Ventura’s 29th birthday, when she and Combs had a heated argument. Ventura told Nash that Combs was angry because she refused to go to the hotel and “Freak Off” with him.

Drug Use and Emotional Wear

While Nash admitted that he personally smoked marijuana, he testified that he saw Ventura take Molly and ecstasy at times, often at home. He didn’t elaborate on whether this use was voluntary, pressured, or coerced—but in the context of the trial, the detail further illustrated an atmosphere steeped in substances, control, and blurred lines.

Day 12 – May 29, 2025

“The Worst Thing That’s Ever Happened to Me”: Former Assistant Testifies About Sexual Assault, Violence, and Fear

Day 12 of the Sean “Diddy” Combs federal sex-trafficking trial brought some of the most personal and devastating testimony to date. Taking the stand under the pseudonym “Mia,” a former assistant to Combs and longtime friend of Cassie Ventura, the witness described years of alleged abuse—both physical and sexual—by the man she once worked for.

Her identity was protected, but her words were clear.

A Life of Fear Behind the Scenes

Mia told the jury she felt “trapped” working for Combs, stuck in a cycle of verbal abuse, manipulation, and power imbalances that left her constantly afraid. According to her, Combs alternated between treating her like a trusted partner and berating her in front of others, threatening her job, and throwing things at her when angry.

In one disturbing incident, Mia said Combs slammed a bathroom door on her arm multiple times after stealing her phone. He threatened to use any private information he found against her. The jury was shown emails she sent to other staff members after the attack, attempting to cope in silence.

Multiple Alleged Sexual Assaults

With her voice nearly breaking, Mia testified that Combs sexually assaulted her on multiple occasions, including at his 40th birthday party in New York and several times inside his Los Angeles home. She emphasized that Cassie Ventura was never present during the incidents and that she never told her about what happened.

Mia made it painfully clear: She never consented.

She never initiated anything. She never wanted it.

Each assault, she said, occurred when Combs didn’t have a girlfriend around. She described their dynamic as one without boundaries, where “No” didn’t feel like an option. “He would fire me and ruin my future,” Mia testified. “He’d twist the story and make me look like the threat.”

She lived in a state of constant fear, not only of losing her job but of being physically harmed if she ever tried to resist.

Why She Didn’t Report

Mia confessed that she never went to the police—not because she didn’t want to, but because she truly didn’t know she could. Based on past experiences with law enforcement and her own internalized shame, she said it never seemed like a real option. “I didn’t know you were supposed to tell the bad things that happened to you if no one else saw,” she said through tears.

She didn’t want to testify. In fact, she said doing so was “the most shameful thing of my life.”

But ultimately, Mia said she came forward out of moral obligation, because it was “the most traumatizing, the worst thing that’s ever happened” to her—and she didn’t want to remain silent any longer.

Day 13 – May 30, 2025

“Eager to Survive”: Mia’s Emotional Cross-Examination and Reflections on Abuse

The 13th day of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sex-trafficking trial brought more powerful and emotional testimony from the woman identified only as “Mia,” a former assistant to Combs and close friend of Cassie Ventura. Continuing her testimony from the previous day, Mia faced tough cross-examination from defense attorney Brian Steel, who pressed her on her past actions, social media posts, and long employment under Combs.

Posting Through the Pain

Jurors were shown social media posts Mia had made for Combs’ birthday, including pictures and messages she shared publicly. Steel challenged the significance of those posts, asking why she would celebrate someone she claims assaulted her during that same birthday celebration. Mia explained that posting was expected of her while working for Combs, regardless of what she had endured behind the scenes.

The defense highlighted the fact that Mia claimed Combs first sexually assaulted her during his 40th birthday party at the Plaza Hotel in New York—a moment she still had to commemorate publicly.

Why She Stayed

When questioned about why she continued to work for Combs—going so far as to make a scrapbook and birthday video for his 45th birthday—Mia responded with heartbreaking honesty.

“I was young and manipulated and eager to survive,” she said.

She described her experience as being caught in a “cycle of violence,” similar to what survivors of intimate abuse often describe. Mia admitted she’s only now beginning to understand the depth of her trauma through therapy. She said she grew up trying to avoid punishment and “was always in trouble” while working for Combs, constantly trying to stay out of his line of fire.

“There was nobody around us that even flinched at his behavior,” she told the court. “I was just trying to find a way not to be in trouble.”

Maintaining Her Truth

Steel repeatedly implied that Mia had fabricated the allegations. “Mr. Combs never had unwanted nonconsensual forcible sexual contact with you. Isn’t that true?” he asked.

Mia, unwavering, replied:

“What I said in this courtroom is true. I have not lied to anyone at all.”

Her Exit From Revolt Film

One of the few moments where Mia became visibly nostalgic was when she described her departure from Revolt Film, Combs’ film and TV company. She said that working in the industry had become her dream, and being informed in 2016 that the company was shutting down felt like “the worst thing in the world.”

“I didn’t want to leave the company I helped build,” she said. “It was the only life I knew.”

Mia is expected to return to the stand the following week as cross-examination continues.

Day 14 – June 2, 2025

The Cost of Silence: Mia’s Final Testimony and Hotel Witnesses Take the Stand

The 14th day of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex-trafficking trial closed with the final testimony of “Mia,” a former assistant who has spent the past several days on the stand detailing the abuse she allegedly endured while working for the music mogul. Her voice concluded a harrowing chapter of the prosecution’s case as new witnesses began laying the groundwork for corroborating evidence—this time from the hospitality industry.

Why She Never Reported It

Under continued cross-examination from defense attorney Brian Steel, Mia was questioned about her decision never to report the alleged abuse to law enforcement, HR, or any third party. On redirect, she explained that she didn’t believe reporting was ever a real option.

“Human Resources only punished me unjustly,” she said. “They wouldn’t have believed me, and I would’ve been fired immediately.” She added that if she had spoken up, she feared being branded “a crazy person making everything up.”

Social Media as a Tool of Control

Mia elaborated on the professional pressure she felt to maintain a public image that didn’t reflect her lived experience. She confirmed that posting about Combs—whether to promote events or celebrate his birthday—was part of her job, not a personal choice. Failing to do so, she testified, could result in being screamed at, mocked, or threatened with termination.

Her testimony was in direct response to previous cross-examination questions about birthday posts, which the defense used to challenge her credibility.

A Job She Couldn’t Escape

Mia reiterated that she did not feel free to walk away from her job, fearing retaliation and permanent blacklisting. When she once attempted to quit, she claimed Combs’ chief of staff ordered her to return. She said she feared losing everything—her credibility, her career, and even her physical safety.

“I just knew his power and his wrath,” she said.

Hotel Testimony Begins

After Mia left the stand, prosecutors called Sylvia Oken, the area director of sales and marketing at the Beverly Hills Hotel, to testify as a custodial witness. Her role was to verify hotel records tied to Combs’ stays.

She confirmed that some of Combs’ bills included unusual charges, such as $500 for oil damage and $300 for cleaning drapes, which prosecutors subtly suggested might reflect misconduct or damage stemming from the alleged abuse.

Oken also testified that Combs sometimes booked rooms under the alias “Frank Black,” a nod to Notorious B.I.G.’s nickname “Frank White,” aligning with prior testimony from other staffers. She noted that this practice is common for high-profile guests.

Importantly, the jury also saw records confirming that Cassie Ventura was listed as a guest with full room access and permission to charge expenses—a detail that supports her previous claims of proximity and involvement during these stays.

Day 15 – June 3, 2025

Cash, Control, and Corporate Silence: Former CFO and Hotel Security Testify

As week four of the federal sex-trafficking trial against Sean “Diddy” Combs continued, the prosecution called two key witnesses to the stand—one from the music mogul’s personal security past, and one from the top of his corporate financial ladder.

A Hotel Video, a Payoff, and a Hidden Assault

The day began with testimony from Eddy Garcia, a former security officer at the InterContinental Hotel, who testified about a disturbing incident from 2016: a surveillance video showing Combs physically assaulting Cassie Ventura, his then-girlfriend. Garcia admitted to accepting $100,000 in exchange for the footage, which was never made public until now. The video is now part of the prosecution’s evidence.

This testimony adds critical weight to Ventura’s previous claims of abuse, revealing both the violence itself and an alleged attempt to conceal it with hush money.

Derek Ferguson: The Money Man Speaks

Later in the day, prosecutors called Derek Ferguson, Combs’ former Chief Financial Officer at Bad Boy Entertainment and later COO of Revolt TV, to provide insight into how Combs ran his financial empire—both personally and professionally.

Business and Personal Finances

Ferguson testified that he oversaw both business and personal transactions for Combs but clarified that he didn’t manage corporate card expenses directly. Instead, finance department employees would review charges to distinguish between business and personal use.

Revolt’s Power Structure

As COO of Revolt, Ferguson said that a professional investment firm held around 40% of the board seats, meaning that major decisions couldn’t be made unilaterally. During testimony, the jury was shown Revolt’s 2016 organizational chart, which notably did not list Combs’ name, a subtle point possibly introduced to challenge the defense’s portrayal of Combs’ hands-on involvement.

No Witness to Crime—But Still Complicit?

During cross-examination, Ferguson stated that he never witnessed Combs commit any crimes or use threats or violence to strengthen his businesses. He emphasized that corporate taxes were handled properly, and he would never allow wrongdoing under his watch.

A Reluctant Final Goodbye

Ferguson’s relationship with Combs appears to have gradually faded after his departure in 2017. The last contact, he said, was a 2024 text from Combs asking to speak—a message he chose not to answer.

Praising the Work Ethic, Not the Morals

Despite the trial’s disturbing allegations, Ferguson still acknowledged Combs’ strong work ethic, saying he “worked constantly” and had a passion for his work that “pushed the entire team.” He credited Combs as having a “great business mind,” even as the courtroom focused on the alleged abuse behind that empire.

Day 16 – June 4, 2025

“Held Over a Balcony”: A Friend’s Terrifying Encounter and the Start of New Testimony

The sixteenth day of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex-trafficking trial took a chilling turn with testimony from Bryana Bongolan, a longtime friend of Cassie Ventura, who took the stand under an immunity agreement. Her testimony painted a harrowing picture of fear, substance use, and violence—including a moment in 2016 where she claims Combs lifted her over a 17-story balcony during a confrontation at Cassie’s apartment.

“I Was Shaking”: The Balcony Incident

Bongolan testified that the incident occurred after Combs pounded on the door of Ventura’s Los Angeles residence. When she stepped out onto the balcony, Bongolan said Combs appeared behind her, grabbed her chest and lifted her by her armpits, holding her over the railing while yelling, “Do you know what the fk you did?”** She said she had no idea what he was referring to and recalled trembling in fear. The moment lasted roughly 15 seconds—but the emotional damage was lasting. She said she did not report the incident to police because she was terrified of what Combs might do.

Threats and Drug Use

Bongolan also testified that during a 2016 beach photo shoot with Ventura, Combs came uncomfortably close to her face and said something along the lines of “I’m the devil and I could kill you.” She said the threat came out of nowhere and left her shaken. When asked why she continued to see Combs after that, Bongolan responded, “Honestly, I don’t know.”

She also acknowledged using drugs regularly with both Ventura and Combs, including cocaine, marijuana, and ketamine. While she and Cassie occasionally tried to get clean and focus on healthier routines like cooking together, those periods never lasted. “We had a problem,” she admitted during cross-examination.

Legal Action and Attempts to Settle

In 2024, Bongolan hired attorney Tyrone Blackburn and pursued a monetary demand related to the balcony incident, but ultimately dropped him as counsel after realizing he had incorrect details in the documentation. Later that year, she was contacted by producer Rob Holladay, who allegedly reached out on Combs’ behalf to discuss a possible settlement. Eventually, Bongolan filed a $10 million lawsuit against Combs, stating her intention was simple: “I wanted to seek justice for what happened to me.”

Sporadic Ties and a New Chapter

Bongolan testified that the last time she spent time with Combs and Ventura was New Year’s Eve 2018, which she described as another drug-fueled night. After that, she vowed to get sober and began to distance herself. Her connection to Ventura became “sporadic,” though the two spoke again in 2023 following Cassie’s civil suit. During that conversation, Bongolan clarified that some details in her own lawsuit—like the date and location of the balcony incident—had been misrepresented.

Day 17 – June 5, 2025

Day 17 of the trial marked the highly anticipated testimony of “Jane,” one of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ accusers, who testified under a pseudonym. Before her testimony began, the judge issued a serious warning to the defense about Combs’ courtroom behavior. According to the judge, Combs had been repeatedly nodding at jurors during earlier testimony from witness Bryana Bongolan—conduct the judge described as “absolutely unacceptable.” He warned that further incidents could lead to jury instructions or even Combs’ removal from the courtroom.

Once Jane took the stand, she began painting a detailed picture of her relationship with Combs. At first, she said, things felt exciting and full of promise. But the relationship quickly turned dark. Jane testified that during a trip to the Bahamas, she and Combs took ecstasy nearly every day—about ten times over the course of nine days. She said the drugs made her feel euphoric and relaxed, and after the trip, Combs wired her $10,000 to compensate for her absence from work as an influencer.

She went on to describe how Combs introduced her to the idea of having sex with other men, calling it a personal fantasy. The first instance, she said, involved a man Combs claimed was from “Cowboys for Angels.” Although she initially felt exhilarated, Jane testified that the experience became the gateway to repeated sexual encounters involving additional men—encounters she eventually came to dread.

According to her testimony, within months, roughly 90% of their sexual encounters involved other men. Jane said she felt pressured to participate in these acts to keep Combs happy and maintain his financial support. At one point, he was paying her rent—about $10,000 monthly—and giving her periodic allowances between $5,000 and $20,000.

Jane also introduced the term “hotel nights,” echoing language previously used in the trial. These were drug-fueled sexual encounters, often arranged by Combs’ staff in advance and sometimes lasting over 24 hours. The jury learned that “hotel nights” were part of a disturbing pattern, a cycle of control, financial dependence, and coerced sexual performance that Jane struggled to escape.

Day 18 – June 6, 2025

On Day 18, Jane resumed her emotional testimony, diving deeper into what she called “hotel nights” and how they affected her emotionally and psychologically. She told the court she had repeatedly asked Combs to stop orchestrating these encounters—usually through text, since direct conversations often turned confrontational. When she did try to speak up, Jane said Combs would dismiss her concerns, belittle her, or overpower the conversation.

In one of the most heart-wrenching moments of the day, Jane broke into tears as she described a “hotel night” that took place on her birthday. She read aloud a text she sent to Combs afterward, saying, “I didn’t want to do those things with you on my birthday, but I wanted to make sure we had a good time.” She added, “I feel so cheap once again,” describing the emotional toll of performing acts she never consented to in her heart.

Jane also testified that after her birthday, Combs planned a “make-up” vacation to Turks and Caicos. But the trip, she said, ended in the same traumatizing pattern. After their first night alone on the island, one of the men who frequently participated in “hotel nights” arrived unannounced. Jane testified that the rest of the trip was consumed by yet another coerced sexual encounter, this time in a hotel near their villa. Despite thinking it was going to be a peaceful getaway, the cycle repeated itself.

Her testimony made clear that although Combs claimed to not realize she was uncomfortable, Jane had been vocal about her feelings since 2021. She described him as dismissive and manipulative—and said that despite the money, the trips, and the public relationship, she felt trapped, objectified, and emotionally devastated.

Day 19 – June 9, 2025

On Day 19 of testimony, “Jane” concluded her direct examination with some of the most emotionally devastating and revealing testimony to date. She described the extent of the emotional manipulation, physical violence, and financial entanglement that defined her relationship with Sean “Diddy” Combs.

Jane testified that following Cassie Ventura’s public lawsuit, she told Combs she felt like “a sex worker in my own relationship,” but had never confided in anyone else about the so-called “hotel nights.” She called them a “shameful dark secret” that she carried in silence.

In March 2024, Combs allegedly suggested a “clean break” and informed his accountant, who had been paying Jane’s rent, of the decision. Jane pushed back, explaining she was still in debt after three years of being what she described as his “on-call party girl.” She asked for three more months before taking over rent payments herself.

Jane also revealed that after Homeland Security raided Combs’ residences in March 2024, she received a business card from agents at his Miami property. Following this, Combs hired a lawyer for her—the same attorney currently representing her—whose services he continued to pay for, even after they separated.

One of the most shocking moments came when Jane described being with Combs in Miami on the day CNN released the InterContinental Hotel surveillance video that appeared to show Combs assaulting Cassie Ventura. Jane said they didn’t discuss the video initially, but noted that Combs never denied being the man in the footage. She also testified that she helped him craft the apology video he later released.

Jane went on to describe a violent altercation in which she confronted Combs about another woman. She admitted to shoving his head into a marble counter and throwing candles, but said Combs retaliated by kicking her, choking her, and ultimately forcing her to cover up her injuries with makeup. He then asked her to take ecstasy because he had invited an entertainer over. Jane said she refused, but Combs got in her face and chillingly asked, “Is this coercion?” She ultimately complied and had sex with the entertainer while Combs watched.

Following that night, Jane said Combs’ assistant delivered between $10,000 and $12,000 in cash—meant to pay the entertainer and cover damages to Jane’s home, including several broken doors from the altercation. Shortly after, the two discussed “breaking up” and becoming “friends.”

Despite everything, Jane said she and Combs continued to communicate up until his arrest. She last saw him in August 2024 at his Miami home. According to Jane, “we were just in our same routine, having sex and everything,” including with entertainers. She also confirmed that she testified before a grand jury in November 2024.

When asked how she currently felt about Combs, Jane said, “I just pray for his continued healing. I pray for peace for him.”

Day 20 – June 10, 2025

The courtroom reconvened briefly on Day 20, though the jury was dismissed early. Before testimony resumed, the judge denied the defense’s second motion for a mistrial. Combs’ attorneys had accused the prosecution of presenting false testimony through Bryana Bongolan, who previously claimed that Combs dangled her over a balcony in 2016. The judge found no basis for mistrial.

The day’s focus shifted to the beginning of Jane’s cross-examination by Combs’ defense attorney, Teny Geragos. Under questioning, Jane stood firm on the emotional and psychological manipulation she said she endured.

She testified that she agreed to sexual encounters with other men not out of desire, but because it was often the only way to see Combs. In one instance, he offered to visit her only if an “entertainer” came along. Jane agreed, saying, “That was the only option I was given, and I wanted to see my lover.”

The jury also reviewed earlier text messages where Jane expressed deep frustration over Combs spending time—and money—with other women. In one exchange, she referenced another woman flaunting a Chanel bag gifted by Combs while he was simultaneously pressuring Jane into organizing a “hotel night.” During a tense back-and-forth with Geragos, Jane admitted it bothered her that these women received expensive gifts and vacations, while she, despite complying with degrading sexual demands, did not.

In another instance, Jane recalled a voice message where she tried to deflect Combs’ plan to include two entertainers in their next meetup. While Combs believed they were building up to a “grand finale” after he finished his album, Jane testified that she was trying to delay the situation and “make excuses to get out of this thing.”

When asked about her current life, Jane confirmed that she now lives in a larger home and made some profit from a dress business that Combs had invested $20,000 in. She acknowledged that he never asked for a share of the profits. Still, she testified that her career stalled significantly during their relationship, saying, “Had I not dove headstrong on this relationship, I probably would’ve been a bit more successful in that time frame.”

Day 21 – June 11, 2025

Jane, the accuser testifying under a pseudonym, continued facing cross-examination in what has now been a multi-day testimony filled with raw, painful disclosures.

The day began with news that Judge Arun Subramanian is considering a request from prosecutors to dismiss one of the jurors, citing concerns about the juror’s lack of honesty during court proceedings. The judge said a decision would come later.

As for Jane, she described what she believed was the longest “hotel night” she endured—an encounter around New Year’s 2022 that she estimated lasted three days and involved three different men. Shortly afterward, she learned Combs had gone on vacation with another woman. Feeling used and betrayed, she sent him a message that read, “You have me feeling so taken advantage of and regretting everything.”

Jane also testified about a time she used her refusal to participate in a “hotel night” as leverage, convincing Combs to end a trip with another woman early. She admitted to planning a Valentine’s Day encounter shortly after that, involving two entertainers—an idea she said was her own, but made under pressure to meet Combs’ expectations.

Despite the abuse she described, Jane’s messages to Combs during this period often read like declarations of love. One text read, “My love for you is unconditional and for life.” Another from 2023—sent around the time she moved into the house Combs was paying for—said, “I love you so much as my friend, my lover, my boyfriend even though you don’t like that word.”

She also shared that there was a brief two-month period where no “hotel nights” took place. During that time, Combs texted about resuming them. Jane replied she wasn’t in the mood and “didn’t want to make him mad.” His response: “All good.”

On her birthday in 2023, Jane asked Combs for $15,000 to cover an outfit and dinner. He paid for the meal but also arranged for “entertainment” afterward. Jane said she went along with it but felt she was under pressure. Days later, she discovered Combs had taken another woman on a vacation to Turks and Caicos. They briefly broke up until he invited her on a similar trip—one she had hoped would reconnect them, but instead led to yet another “hotel night” involving an entertainer.

Day 22 – June 12, 2025

Jane concluded her testimony after enduring several days of cross-examination and redirect. Her final remarks offered a fuller picture of the psychological manipulation, fear, and inner conflict that characterized her relationship with Sean Combs.

She revisited the 2024 physical altercation that marked what she described as her “breaking point.” Jane said she had confronted Combs about another woman he was allegedly traveling with, leading to a fight. She ended up calling the woman from Combs’ phone and the two traded insults. Combs later FaceTimed his assistant, Jonathan, to deny the woman’s presence.

During the “hotel night” that followed, Jane reconnected with the same entertainer she had previously slept with in Las Vegas—an incident Combs had not been present for. When the entertainer texted Jane about their “mutual friend,” Combs became enraged. “How could you go to another man’s freak off?” he reportedly asked.

Jane explained her conflicting behavior by describing a cycle in which Combs would shower her with affection—followed by sexual coercion. She admitted to compartmentalizing the trauma to focus on the “good parts,” even sending loving messages after painful incidents like the Turks and Caicos trip.

When asked why she would bring up “hotel nights” in conversations about Combs’ other women, Jane’s voice cracked. “Why do I have to be degraded in order to be with you?” she asked. “Why do I have to break all my boundaries and compromise on myself—but they can still experience you in the way I want to?”

She said she began voicing resistance to “hotel nights” as early as 2021 and became more direct about her discomfort in 2023. But Combs frequently mentioned her rent—something he paid for—as leverage to pressure her into compliance. Jane claimed those threats came in “all different types of ways.”

Finally, when the prosecutor asked if she would give back every dollar and gift she ever received from Combs if it meant she never had to sleep with other men during their relationship, Jane answered without hesitation: “Yes.” She also confirmed she expects no financial gain from testifying and is only doing so because she was subpoenaed.

Day 23 – June 13, 202

The courtroom’s focus shifted on Day 23 from Jane’s wrenching testimony to logistical issues—and a celebrity sighting.

Judge Subramanian announced that he was considering dismissing one of the jurors due to conflicting answers about where the juror actually lives. A final decision would be made after the weekend.

In a surprising turn, Kanye West made a brief appearance at the courthouse. The rapper didn’t stay long—only around 40 minutes—but acknowledged reporters with a nod when asked if he was there to support Combs. He gave no public comment.

While no major testimony took place on Day 23, the courtroom remained tense following Jane’s harrowing accounts and the looming question of juror integrity.

Day 24 – June 16, 2025

The courtroom atmosphere took a heavy turn as jurors were shown explicit video footage for the first time in the trial—moving beyond the still images and audio clips previously presented.

Three short videos were played, each depicting graphic sexual encounters filmed in 2012 and 2014. The footage lasted just over two minutes in total. Out of sensitivity to public spectators, only the judge, jury, and involved parties wore headphones while viewing the clips—lawyers weren’t allowed to view them due to their proximity to the gallery.

While most jurors stayed stone-faced, one female juror shielded her eyes, visibly shaken. Another juror winced during the viewing.

Earlier in the day, Judge Arun Subramanian officially dismissed Juror No. 6 for inconsistent and misleading statements about his residence—an issue flagged by the prosecution last week.

Day 25 – June 17, 2025

The jury returned for limited testimony from Special Agent DeLeassa Penland. After the presentation, Judge Subramanian excused the jury for the remainder of the day.

As the trial inches toward its conclusion, Assistant U.S. Attorney Maurene Comey confirmed that the prosecution expects to rest by Friday. Defense attorneys estimated their case will take two to five days, suggesting jury deliberations may begin the following week.

The judge also confirmed a brief break for Juneteenth on Wednesday, June 19. The trial was expected to resume Friday, June 20.

Day 26 – June 20, 2025

Today’s witnesses included Brendan Paul, former assistant to Combs, and Special Agent Joseph Cerciello of Homeland Security Investigations. The courtroom also saw additional sexually explicit video evidence presented to the jury.

With both sides feeling the pressure to wrap up, the prosecution announced plans to rest by Monday, while the defense expects to follow shortly after. The judge tentatively scheduled closing arguments for Thursday—pending actual case wrap-up.

Day 27 – June 23, 2025

Special Agent Joseph Cerciello returned to the stand for his final day of testimony, capping off the prosecution’s six-week case. He detailed government-created summary charts of travel records, finances, and digital communications—tying Combs to orchestrated travel for Jane and various entertainers.

The jury also viewed more minutes of explicit video footage. In total, the trial has featured over 40 minutes of sexually graphic content.

The defense announced it would begin and conclude its case the next day—opting not to call any witnesses. With this, both sides prepared for closing arguments on Thursday and Friday.

Day 28 – June 24, 2025

It’s official: the prosecution and defense have both rested their cases.

The prosecution wrapped up after six weeks, 34 witnesses, and dozens of exhibits. The defense rested after presenting a 30-minute case and calling no witnesses.

Key moments from the final day:

• Initiation vs. Coercion: Defense attorney Teny Geragos questioned Cerciello about 2021 texts between Jane and entertainer “Sly,” attempting to show Jane initiated some explicit encounters herself. Jane had previously testified that such messages were only sent under Combs’ pressure.

• “Keep the coast clear”: Texts from Jane to Brendan Paul showed an effort to avoid staff seeing him participate in “hotel nights.” In one message, she said: “Let me make sure the coast is clear.”

• Crossing State Lines: Flight and travel records confirmed that Combs personally paid for Jane and entertainers to be flown—evidence the prosecution argues supports the sex trafficking charges.

• Defense’s Final Moves: The defense entered several stipulations into the record to cast doubt on prosecution witnesses. These included statements that contradicted or omitted past threats allegedly made by Combs, including Mia, Bryana Bongolan, and Dawn Richard.

• Rule 29 Motion: Defense attorney Alexandra Shapiro filed a motion for judgment of acquittal, arguing that the government had not proven its case. She claimed there was insufficient evidence to support conspiracy or sex trafficking charges. Prosecutor Christy Slavik opposed the motion, stating the evidence was “more than sufficient.” The judge reserved his decision.

• Combs speaks (briefly): When asked by the judge if he understood his right not to testify, Combs said, “I’m doing great, your honor,” and thanked the judge for “an excellent job.” He confirmed it was his choice not to take the stand.

Next Up: Closing Arguments & Deliberations Begin

The courtroom will remain quiet on Wednesday. Jurors return Thursday for closing arguments—expected to stretch into Friday. Prosecutors anticipate jury deliberations to begin Monday.

After nearly six weeks of harrowing testimony, disturbing evidence, and emotional breakdowns, it’s now up to the jury to decide the outcome of one of the most explosive celebrity criminal trials in recent history.