Sean 'Diddy' Combs trial: Rapper's former personal assistant takes the stand in sex trafficking case
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs has been charged with sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and transportation to engage in prostitution. If convicted, he could serve up to life in prison. He has pleaded not guilty.
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ former personal assistant claimed he told Cassie Ventura to leave the rapper in the early days of their relationship.
David James, who worked as Combs’ personal assistant from 2007 until 2009, confirmed Diddy had multiple girlfriends. When he first started working for the now-disgraced music mogul, James said Kim Porter was Diddy’s main girlfriend and others included Cassie plus women named Tara and Sarah.
James testified he first met Cassie when she came down for a weekend to be with Diddy. Combs rented out a yacht and they all allegedly went to dinner and partied. James testified that Combs was really trying to impress Cassie.
While on the stand, James recalled two conversations he had with Cassie. James remembered sitting on the dock smoking cigarettes with Cassie and her friend, Kerry Morgan. He recalled Cassie saying, “Man this lifestyle is crazy.”
According to James, he told Cassie to get out. Cassie allegedly said she couldn’t because Combs controlled so much of her life.
James testified he also overheard a convo while in the car with Diddy in NYC. A business associate of Combs’ asked about Porter and Cassie. He claimed Diddy replied, “Cassie is good…I’ve got her right where I want her…”
The former personal assistant claimed he witnessed disagreements between Cassie and Diddy about the singer’s professional career, including her aspirations of getting into modeling and acting.
James took the stand after Cassie's former friend testified Monday in the sex-trafficking trial. Kerry Morgan claimed Diddy physically assaulted her in 2018, leading to the end of her friendship with the "Me & U" singer. Diddy's lawyer questioned Morgan about why that would break up her friendship with Cassie. Morgan replied, “I draw my line at physical abuse.” According to Morgan’s testimony, she and Cassie have not spoken in seven years.
Morgan cut off contact after Cassie offered her $30K to sign a NDA about Diddy's alleged abuse.
Before Morgan took the stand, the jury heard continued testimony from former Danity Kane singer Dawn Richard. The musician confirmed she believed Diddy ruined her career after disbanding both Danity Kane and Diddy - Dirty Money.
Diddy would threaten Dawn Richard for intervening his relationship with Cassie Ventura, she testified Monday. Richard claimed she told Cassie that she should leave Diddy after witnessing the rapper’s alleged violent behavior towards his girlfriend. According to Richard, Cassie was torn. The singer testified that Cassie would listen, but she could see the fear.
On Friday, Richard testified she witnessed Diddy attempt to hit Cassie over the head with a frying pan full of eggs. The "Last Night" rapper allegedly threatened Richard's life the next day, warning her not to tell anyone.
Diddy's sex-trafficking trial will resume Tuesday with James' continued testimony.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Additional evidence submitted by the government in the Sean "Diddy" Combs federal trial showed images of bags of baby oil.
The U.S. Attorney's Office included multiple images of items recovered from Diddy's hotel room at the Park Hyatt when he was arrested in New York on Sept. 16.
HSI special agent Yasin Binda testified in court Friday that detectives allegedly discovered a number of supplies frequently used in "freak off" sessions.
Binda told Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson that one Ziploc bag with Johnson's baby oil and another bag with AstroGlide was recovered from Diddy's hotel room.
A lighting device used for "potentially mood lighting" was also discovered. Binda claimed that agents found "several bottles of baby oil in the bathroom," and another "five bottles" were found in the bathtub.
The government also included images of a pink powder substance found in small baggies.
Fox News Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
The U.S. Attorney's Office included new evidence of injuries Cassie Ventura allegedly sustained while she was in a relationship with Sean "Diddy" Combs.
One image submitted by the government showed the singer with a gash across her eyebrow.
Cassie finished testifying last week as "Victim 1" after four days on the stand. She recalled the Intercontinental Hotel incident in March 2016, and alleged Diddy was often abusive.
After the jury was shown screenshots from the alleged “freak offs,” Cassie claimed that it had become common for Diddy to become “physical” with her.
She defined “physical” as punishment, beatings, kicking, etc. Cassie claimed Combs’ security was present and aware of the rapper getting physical with her at times. Additionally, Cassie testified that Diddy’s driver in New York City knew about the abuse.
Dawn Richard, a former member of Diddy's girl group, testified to witnessing Diddy hitting Cassie during an alleged altercation in 2019.
The singer said she "observed Cassie being attacked." She alleged that Diddy came down stairs screaming, hit her in the head and beat her around.
Richard claimed Diddy "came downstairs angry saying where the f--- is his eggs." She then alleged Diddy grabbed a skillet of eggs and attempted to hit Cassie in the head.
Cassie allegedly fell to the ground anticipating the hit, but it didn't hit her. "She went into a fetal position ... literally trying to hide her face," Richard said.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ former personal assistant claimed the rapper went through a lot of other assistants while he was working for him between 2007 and 2009.
While on the stand, David James shared what his typical day working for Diddy looked like.
He told the jury his responsibilities included making sure Combs was able to operate the company, a lot of organization of personal items and traveling.
James testified he would have to arrive at Diddy’s home before the rapper woke up, set up the day, have his business schedule laid out, a folder of press clippings, turn on the TV to his favorite channel and have the chef get breakfast going.
After Diddy woke up, he would eat and James would call security to let them know the rapper was getting ready to leave. He would go to meetings, dinners and the studio with the music mogul.
James claimed it was important he didn’t leave Combs' side until he was given a call time. The former personal assistant was working from 30 mins before Diddy woke up until the call time.
He confirmed his starting salary was $70K and that he was paid overtime.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Cassie Ventura’s former friend Kerry Morgan was dismissed after prosecutors asked her a few questions during re-direct.
Afterwards, David James took the stand. James worked as Diddy’s personal assistant from May 2007 until May 2009.
He confirmed he is there to testify because he was subpoenaed.
After attending college at Michigan State, he went on to become an executive assistant.
James initially wanted to pursue a career in fashion and applied for Combs’ assistant position. He testified the Interview was in New York and 15 others applied for the job.
During the interview, he met with an executive of Bad Boy Records. She told James during the interview that “we’re all here to serve [Diddy.]”
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Kerry Morgan believed Cassie Ventura's relationship with Sean "Diddy" Combs was volatile.
During cross-examination with Diddy's lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, Morgan admitted she thought Cassie should break up with Diddy.
She also admitted there were times she thought the Bad Boy Records founder and Cassie were in love, and very much loved each other.
Morgan, 38, noted that Diddy was a flawed person.
Earlier in the day, Morgan claimed that Diddy once assaulted her at Cassie's home in 2018.
They were allegedly listening to music when Diddy walked into the room. Cassie allegedly proceeded to lock herself in the bathroom.
"He came up behind me, choked me," Morgan claimed before Diddy allegedly threw a hanger at her head which hit her right behind her ear. She allegedly suffered a concussion from the incident and was treated at an urgent care.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Kerry Morgan explained why her friendship with Cassie Ventura ended in 2018 during Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sex-trafficking trial.
Defense attorney Marc Agnifilo asked Morgan about how she has not been speaking to Cassie since she was allegedly assault by Diddy. The former friend of Cassie confirmed the two have not spoken in seven years.
Morgan explained she stopped speaking to Cassie because the singer-songwriter “was not supportive to me after that incident.”
Angifilo then pressed Morgan about why that would break up the friendship. Morgan replied, “I draw my line at physical abuse.” According to Morgan’s testimony, Cassie has not reached out to her either since that moment.
Agnifilo then brought up the money Morgan received from Diddy. Morgan claimed the money was not coming from Cassie. She told the jury, “I didn’t demand money from anyone.” According to Morgan, Cassie offered her money to sign an NDA. Morgan claimed she got $30K. Agnifilo asked if it was $50K. However, Morgan confirmed she only got $30K.
Morgan testified that she does not know why Cassie hasn’t reached out to her. The two haven’t spoken since Cassie offered her $30K if she signed the NDA.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Sean “Diddy” Combs allegedly got another woman pregnant while dating Cassie Ventura, according to the singer’s former friend.
Kerry Morgan brought up the alleged other woman during cross-examination. Diddy’s lawyer Marc Agnifilo asked if Gina was a source of jealousy and worry for Cassie. Morgan testified, “She was a big problem.”
Morgan claimed that Diddy was having a relationship with Gina. According to her testimony, Morgan and Cassie referred to Gina as a little girl because she acted like one. Morgan confirmed Cassie was hurt by Diddy’s relationship with Gina.
“I’m pretty sure she got pregnant, that Gina girl,” Morgan told the jury during cross-examination.
Cassie previously testified about Gina during her four days on the stand.
The now 38-year-old musician explained she called things off with Diddy in 2018 after she found out that he was still allegedly seeing Gina. Combs and Gina supposedly began an on-and-off again romance in April 2014.
Cassie had also moved on in 2018 and had begun seeing her now-husband, Alex Fine. However, she testified that contact between her and Diddy did not end after the break up. Cassie said, “There was no ceasing of all contact, but the relationship was over.” She confirmed she did continue to communicate with Diddy after telling him the relationship was over.
Another message was shown where Cassie wrote, “That last shot was the nail in the coffin…she never went away…” Cassie said she believes she was referencing Gina. “I promised myself I wouldn’t be with you anymore if you did that again,” a message from Cassie to Combs read.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Kerry Morgan testified that law enforcement officials were called to Cassie Ventura's apartment, following the hotel incident involving Sean "Diddy" Combs.
Morgan claimed neither she nor Cassie called the police, but that they came to the apartment because of the noise. Morgan said Cassie had a noticeable black eye.
Upon arrival, police allegedly asked for identification and asked Cassie what happened, but she didn't respond. She also did not provide her license, and the police allegedly didn't do anything to determine her identity.
Morgan claimed law enforcement officials were in the home for approximately 15 minutes.
Cassie previously testified that she went to the Intercontinental Hotel because Diddy had requested a “freak off,” days before her movie premiere on March 7, 2016.
Diddy allegedly arrived at Cassie’s home about 30 minutes later. “He was hitting the door with a hammer…” Morgan testified. She admitted she was “terrified.”
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Kerry Morgan confirmed that Cassie Ventura did talk to Michael B. Jordan right before heading to South Africa for a movie shoot during cross-examination Monday.
Morgan told Sean “Diddy” Combs’ defense lawyer that Cassie was not with Combs at this time.
Marc Agnifilo, Diddy’s attorney, asked Morgan about the relationship between Cassie and Jordan. Morgan testified that she does not know much, just that they were speaking at the time. She emphasized that Cassie was not with Diddy at this time, but the rapper was allegedly jealous.
Morgan claimed she and Cassie were not using controlled substances while in South Africa.
Fox News Digital reached out to a representative for Michael B. Jordan for comment.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Cassie Ventura's former friend, Kerry Morgan, testified Monday that Sean "Diddy" Combs was "quite jealous" of other rappers.
Morgan, 38, told the court that Cassie worked with French Montana, Too Short and Kid Cudi during her career.
She claimed that Diddy's jealousy would stress her if she was involved.
The federal criminal trial against Diddy for sex crimes has taken Hollywood by storm, with many big actors and musicians being brought up in court.
It started during jury selection when prospective jurors were given a list of celebrity names during the voir dire process and asked if they recognized any of them.
The celebrity names on the list included Mike Myers, Diddy's children – Justin and Christian Combs – Aubrey O'Day, actress Lauren London, actor Michael B. Jordan, Cudi, Kanye West, singer Michelle Williams, Dawn Richards and Cassie Ventura.
While it's unclear why some of the celebrities made this list, USA Today reported there is a scene in Myers' "Austin Powers" that jokes about the disgraced rapper.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Sean "Diddy" Combs' ex Kim Porter made Cassie Ventura jealous, the singer's former friend testified.
Diddy’s main defense lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, began cross-examination of Cassie's friend Kerry Morgan after lunch wrapped up. Agnifilo asked Morgan if Cassie was jealous of Diddy’s ex Kim Porter.
“I’m sure…she could never live up to the New Year’s Eve parties.”
Cassie herself testified that she was hurt after Diddy said Porter was his soulmate. After Porter died unexpectedly on Nov. 5, 2018, Cassie attended the memorial.
Diddy’s defense showed the jury a text Cassie wrote to Combs afterwards.
On Nov. 19, 2018, Cassie wrote, “I didn’t just leave you…said good bye. I wanted to be there for you…I need to be real with you…you compared me to Gina the other day…you posted that Kim was your soulmate…what was the 11 years all about?...I know you’re going through a lot right now, but that really hurt me…”
Cassie confirmed during her testimony that she was hurt after Porter’s memorial.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Judge Arun Subramanian is the judge presiding over the federal trial against rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs for allegations of sex crimes.
Subramanian was the first Indian-American to serve as the District Judge for the Southern District of New York, with the United States Senate confirming his position in March 2023.
He earned his law degree in 2004 from Columbia Law School and went on to work as a law clerk for many famous names, including Supreme Court Justice, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, for many years. He landed a position at Susman Godfrey LLP in 2007, and eventually worked his way up to partner.
Subramanian was assigned to oversee Diddy’s case in October 2024, taking over the case from Judge Andrew Carter.
Prior to the start of the trial, Subramanian denied Diddy’s request for bail. The rapper is currently being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York, where he has been since his arrest on September 16, 2024.
Kerry Morgan, Cassie Ventura's former friend, was seen Monday entering the Daniel Patrick Moynihan United States Courthouse in Manhattan.
Morgan, 38, was called to testified on behalf of the government in the Sean "Diddy" Combs federal trial for sex crimes. She was pictured wearing a khaki colored blouse and dark sunglasses.
Diddy's team objected to testimony Morgan gave on the stand about an alleged conversation between Morgan and Cassie. The government claimed Morgan would testify about specific memories from a hotel.
Judge Arun Subramanian said he would allow the testimony and also allow Diddy's legal team the right to call Cassie back to the stand.
Prosecutors said it was unlikely Cassie would be available for a recall due to her medical condition. Cassie is pregnant with her third child with Alex Fine.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ ex Misa Hylton explained her presence at the rapper’s federal trial last week.
Hylton, who appeared at the Manhattan courthouse with a walker, told her Instagram followers she was there to support her and Diddy’s son – Justin Combs.
“When I suffered my injury I had chosen to heal privately but when my son said ‘Mommy I need you’ I was right there for him walker and all,” she wrote Saturday on Instagram. “I'm a MOTHER FIRST, FOR REAL and I am my son's strength and thats just what it is. Plain and Simple. Whoever doesn't understand that just simply isn't in alignment with me or anything that I'm about in life. I'm cool with that. I have a purpose filled life that I live daily. I make impact. I'm not concerned with insecure people attempting to project their insecurities on to me. EVER.”
“Let's start being real people who do real things again,” she added. “Don't let this app rule your life I promise you it's really not good for you. Every moment isn't a glamour moment, your best highlight reel, some moments are as down to the bone as you could ever in your life imagine. Layered and complex. To all of my temporarily disabled and disabled people, don't ever be ashamed of your condition or the need to use the medical tools created to assist in your healing or the way you need to move around in this world.”
Hylton concluded: “If you have God in your heart, pray for us all. Be kind, use critical thinking and hold your head high.”
The fashion designer’s son with Diddy, Justin Combs, attended his father’s trial throughout last week.
Kerry Morgan testified on behalf of the government Monday in the Sean "Diddy" Combs federal trial for sex crimes.
Morgan, 38, claimed the "All About the Benjamins" rapper assaulted her at Cassie Ventura's home in 2018.
They were allegedly listening to music when Diddy walked into the room. Cassie allegedly proceeded to lock herself in the bathroom.
"He came up behind me, choked me," Morgan said before Diddy allegedly threw a hanger at her head which hit her right behind her ear.
Morgan claimed Diddy wanted to know who Cassie was cheating on him with. She also claimed to have a brief conversation with Diddy's old assistant, Ryan, and said Diddy had lost it.
Morgan allegedly had a concussion from the incident and was treated at an urgent care.
Following the alleged assault, Morgan had legal counsel reach out to Diddy because she was debating filing a lawsuit against the Bad Boy Records founder. She didn't file, but allegedly received a $30,000 payout from Diddy.
Cassie and Morgan then met at a pizza place where she told Morgan she was "milking it" for the money and gave Morgan an NDA (non-disclosure agreement.) That was the last time Morgan allegedly spoke with Cassie.
The last time Morgan allegedly spoke with Diddy was the night of the assault.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Kerry Morgan claimed Cassie Ventura never told her why she was at the Intercontinental Hotel with Diddy on March 5, 2016.
Diddy and Cassie allegedly had a “freak off” at the Intercontinental Hotel on March 5, 2016 that turned violent. Cassie previously testified that she was attempting to leave the “freak off” after Diddy gave her a black eye.
Prosecutors asked Morgan if she every spoke to Cassie about her relationship with Sean "Diddy" Combs.
She claimed she did, telling her that she should leave the "Last Night" rapper. Cassie claimed she couldn't because Diddy controlled everything from her homes to her cars and more.
Morgan said she encouraged Cassie to talk to law enforcement officials about the hotel incident. Morgan hadn't called the police before because Cassie didn't want her to.
Fox News Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Cassie’s former friend Kerry Morgan testified about the March 5, 2016 assault on the singer by Sean “Diddy” Combs.
At the time, Morgan was staying at Cassie’s home ahead of the movie premiere. Cassie previously testified that she went to the Intercontinental Hotel because Diddy had requested a “freak off,” days before her movie premiere on March 7, 2016.
Morgan testified that when Cassie arrived home from the hotel, she had her hoodie over her head. When Cassie pulled the hoodie back, she had a black eye, according to Morgan.
Diddy allegedly arrived at Cassie’s home about 30 minutes later. “He was hitting the door with a hammer…” Morgan testified. She admitted she was “terrified.”
She described Cassie as appearing “numb” while just sitting on the couch. Morgan testified that she called KK and Diddy’s security guard D-Roc. Diddy eventually left, she claimed.
Morgan said the police did come, but Cassie would not provide her ID or tell them anything.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Kerry Morgan told prosecutors she witnessed Sean "Diddy" Combs assault Cassie Ventura while on vacation in Jamaica in 2013.
Morgan, 38, said she was in the bar area when she allegedly heard Cassie screaming. The singer had gone to the bathroom and Diddy allegedly told her she was taking too long to get ready.
Morgan then went to the hallway and claimed to witness Diddy dragging Cassie by her hair. She then testified to witnessing the "Victory" rapper push Cassie to the ground and hit her head.
Cassie allegedly fell on her side in a loose fetal position with her eyes closed and "didn't move" for upwards of 20-30 seconds.
"I thought she was knocked out," Morgan testified. Cassie then allegedly ran off, and Morgan went searching for her with Diddy in a golf cart.
They eventually found her hiding in a ditch. Morgan claimed the search "felt like hours."
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Cassie Ventura’s former friend Kerry Morgan testified that the two once hid from Sean “Diddy” Combs after one of his alleged violent outbursts.
Morgan testified that Diddy would often call her looking for Cassie. “Sometimes he would call 50 times in a row…” the personal assistant said on the stand.
Morgan claimed that she witnessed Diddy assault Cassie twice and described the violence as hitting, kicking or pulling the singer. One assault allegedly took place in Los Angeles.
The first assault Morgan claimed she witnessed occurred at Combs’ home in Los Angeles. Combs, Cassie, Morgan, and Ruben – one of Diddy’s security guards, were all present, according to her testimony.
Morgan described the assault, “I saw him push her…” She said they were on the other side of the bed. Morgan continued saying that she was upset and told Ruben, “do something.” Ruben allegedly responded that he wasn’t going to do anything.
Morgan said after the assault, she and Cassie left the house and hid by the neighbor’s concrete steps. She testified that the two hid for 20 to 30 minutes.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Cassie Ventura’s former friend Kerry Morgan testified that Diddy once assaulted her.
Morgan is 38, from Buffalo and works as a personal assistant. From 2001 until 2018, Morgan was best friends with Cassie.
Morgan began her testimony by telling the jury that Diddy assaulted her in 2018.
The now 38-year-old claimed she is only testifying because she was subpoenaed. According to Morgan, she didn’t want to testify because “I have moved on with my life…”
Cassie and Morgan met when they started modeling. The two lived together in Manhattan. She testified that Cassie was very confident. Morgan claimed Cassie didn’t drink much and didn’t use drugs when the two first met.
When Morgan learned Cassie was dating Combs, she would often spend time with them. The trio traveled to Ibizia, Italy, Vegas and more, according to Morgan.
Morgan admitted when she hung out with Cassie and Diddy, drugs were involved and provided by Combs. They would allegedly use drugs when going out to parties and clubs. Morgan also claimed she would do drugs with Cassie alone.
Cassie Ventura's former best friend, Kerry Morgan, testified Monday about her relationship with the singer, which began in 2001.
Morgan told the court that when she first got to know Sean "Diddy" Combs, he was nice and generous. Further into the relationship, she realized he had "mood swings" and could get aggressive.
Morgan said that Cassie "lost her confidence big time" after she began dating the Bad Boy Records founder.
She said she would hear Diddy criticizing and talking down to Cassie about her looks and how she behaved.
Diddy allegedly "would call 50 times in a row" in search of Cassie.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Dawn Richard admitted she was willing to work with Sean “Diddy” Combs again even after he allegedly threatened her life.
Diddy’s defense lawyer, Nicole Westmoreland, asked Richard about reaching out to Combs as recently as 2020 or 2021. Richard testified if they got Diddy - Dirty Money back together this would require her to be around Combs often - working, writing, touring, traveling out of state and out of the country. Richard told the defense lawyer that she was willing to work with Diddy again even though he allegedly made death threats.
Richard told Assistant U.S. Attorney Mitzi Steiner that she reached out to Combs to work with him after ending their professional relationship because Kalenna Harper requested it.
Richard explained contact was sporadic but she wanted to get Diddy - Dirty Money back together because of the issues Harper was allegedly having. According to Richard, she didn’t want to go back to work with Diddy because “it wasn’t good.” She claimed she just wanted to help a friend.
Diddy - Dirty Money disbanded in 2012. The trio briefly reunited for Diddy’s 2023 album, "The Love Album: Off the Grid.”
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Former Danity Kane singer Dawn Richards claimed she has no doubt that Sean “Diddy” Combs threatened her to keep quiet about his alleged abuse of Cassie Ventura.
Assistant U.S. attorney Mitzi Steiner asked Richard how long ago the incident with the frying pan was during the redirect. Richard said she’s not good at math. The musician had testified during direct examination that she witnessed Diddy attempt to strike Cassie over the head with a frying pan and that Diddy had threatened her to keep quiet the next day.
During the redirect, Steiner asked if Richard had any doubt that Diddy attempted to strike Cassie, that Cassie dropped to the floor in the fetal position, Combs dragged Cassie upstairs, Richard heard yelling, and that the following day, the rapper threatened her to keep quiet.
Richard said no, that she has no doubt.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Dawn Richard testified that she believes Sean “Diddy” Combs ruined her career.
During cross-examination, defense lawyer Nicole Westmoreland asked Richard about Danity Kane and Diddy - Dirty Money. Richard explained both groups sold a lot of records.
Richard confirms that in later years, she asked Combs to sign her as a solo artist. She also admitted she reached out to Diddy as recently as 2020 or 2021.
The singer agreed with Westmoreland that Diddy had no reason to dismantle her previous groups and said she was “saddened by it.” Richard testified that she believes Diddy ruined her career.
Richard was a part of Diddy - Dirty Money, which featured the singer, Combs and Kalenna Harper.
The now 41-year-old was also a part of Danity Kane. The group, which was formed by Diddy on “Making the Band,” featured Richard along with Aubrey O’Day, D. Woods, Shannon Bex and Aundrea Fimbres.
Dainty Kane initially split in 2009, but later reunited for a year in 2013.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ defense claimed the former Danity Kane singer’s testimony had changed.
Dawn Richard testified during direct examination that she observed Diddy using drugs. According to Richard, Diddy would use various drugs including weed, ketamine, cocaine and molly often at the studio or his house. However, Richard claimed she never saw him take opiates.
Richard testified that Combs stored the drugs in his Louis Vuitton bag. Richard admitted she only smoked weed, but she claimed she saw Diddy give Cassie drugs.
During cross-examination, Diddy’s lawyer, Nicole Westmoreland, asked about the rapper's drug use. Westmoreland specifically asked about using cocaine. Richard said she doesn’t recall telling the government she never saw Combs do cocaine.
Westmoreland accused Richard of changing her story. Richard responded that as time progresses, she is remembering more.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Dawn Richard testified that she saw Sean “Diddy” Combs with guns, but never saw him pull one out.
During Richard’s direct examination she claimed she saw Diddy with a hand gun a few times in 2009 or 2010 when the singer was a part of Diddy - Dirty Money. Richard and Combs were joined by Kalenna Harper to complete the musical trio at the time. Richard added that she had also seen Diddy with a gun while in a club after working at the studio. According to the singer, D-Roc and Bond also carried guns.
Diddy’s defense lawyer, Nicole Westmoreland, asked about Richard seeing Diddy with a gun during cross-examination. The lawyer asked for specifics. Richard claimed she saw Combs with a gun at the studio in New York. Westmoreland asked why specific details weren’t given to prosecutors. Richard claimed she didn’t give specifics because prosecutors didn’t ask.
Westmoreland asked Richard if she ever saw Combs pull a gun out. Richard said no.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
As Sean “Diddy” Combs’ trial continued Monday, more celebrities were mentioned during Dawn Richard’s testimony.
Diddy’s lawyer asked Richard about an incident that occurred in 2010 at dinner. Richard had testified about the incident that occurred at a restaurant in West Hollywood during direct examination. She claimed that she witnessed Diddy and Cassie “secretly arguing” and that Harve Pierre, president of Bad Boy Records, did not interfere during the incident.
When questioned by Combs’ lawyer, Nicole Westmoreland, during cross-examination, Richard claimed some celebrities were there - including Usher and Ne-Yo.
Fox News Digital reached out to representatives for Usher and Ne-Yo for comment. Neither star has been accused of any wrongdoing in this case.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ defense questioned former Danity Kane singer Dawn Richard about her recollection of events during Monday’s cross-examination.
Diddy’s defense lawyer, Nicole Westmoreland, asked if Richard’s allegations had changed. Richard said they are the best she can recall.
Westmoreland then brought up the allegation that Richard witnessed Diddy attempt to hit Cassie Ventura in the head with a skillet of eggs. According to Richard, she spoke about the incident in her civil lawsuit and in a meeting with prosecutors.
Westmoreland showed the jury a letter sent on Richard’s behalf where the musician said she heard a pan hit the wall but didn’t see it. The now 41-year-old said she does not recall.
Richard confirmed she told the government that Combs hit Cassie with the frying pan and agreed there is a difference between hitting someone with a frying pan and throwing a frying pan.
Westmoreland asked Richard if it’s been hard for her to keep her story straight. The singer said no and that she’s told the story to the best of her recollection.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Sean “Diddy” Combs would threaten Dawn Richard for intervening his relationship with Cassie Ventura, the former Danity Kane singer testified Monday.
Richard claimed she told Cassie that she should leave Diddy after witnessing the rapper’s violent behavior towards his girlfriend. According to Richard, Cassie was torn. The singer testified that Cassie would listen, but she could see the fear.
Diddy allegedly didn’t like Richard talking to Cassie. Richard claimed Diddy would tell her, “I would pay for it” and “stay the f--- outta my relationship.” Richard claimed Combs told them if they didn’t stay in line, there would be consequences.
Richard testified that Diddy would be “loud, angry, violent…it was mean.” The “Making the Band” star explained she tried to be as kind as possible to Diddy and tried to "approach Mr. Combs with softness…”
Richard admitted that she ultimately made the decision to stay out of the relationship because she didn’t think Cassie was ready to do anything.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Dawn Richard testified that Sean “Diddy” Combs’ security would not intervene when the rapper was allegedly physically assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura.
While on the stand Monday, the former Danity Kane singer claimed neither D-Roc nor Bonds, two of Diddy’s security guards, would do anything when they witnessed incidents of violence.
Richard testified about being in a car with Cassie, Combs, D-Roc and another woman. The singer claimed Cassie and Diddy were arguing because of something the rapper did. Combs proceeded to hit Cassie in the mouth, according to Richard. However, D-Roc allegedly did not do anything at the time.
Richard also described another incident where Diddy allegedly punched Cassie in the face with a closed fist. Cassie went to the bathroom crying as the rapper walked off. Richard observed Cassie with a swollen eye.
Richard explained Cassie often wore sunglasses and makeup to cover bruising.
The jury was shown a photo of Cassie, another woman and Richard wearing sunglasses. Richard explained they wore the sunglasses to have “solidarity” and be Cassie's “support system.”
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Former Danity Kane singer Dawn Richard testified that she witnessed Sean “Diddy” Combs attack his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura “frequently.”
Diddy’s trial testimony resumed Monday around 9:30am with Richard taking the stand.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mitzi Steiner asked the musician if she’d ever witnessed other acts of violence committed by Diddy. Richard previously testified that she saw Combs allegedly attempt to hit Cassie over the head with a skillet of eggs.
Richard now claimed she saw other acts of violence “frequently.” The singer, who appeared on “Making the Band,” testified that she witnessed Diddy choke, punch and kick Cassie.
According to Richard, the attacks could be random or occurred when Cassie would speak up for herself. Richard claimed Cassie was normally quiet, but when she spoke up for herself, Diddy would allegedly hurt her.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Dawn Richard's testimony in Sean "Diddy" Combs' sex-trafficking trial could "undercut" any theory the defense presents saying Cassie Ventura is "exaggerating" her claims against the rapper.
Cassie testified for four days about alleged violence that occurred throughout the 10-year relationship she had with Combs. Richard took the stand on Friday and testified that she witnessed Diddy become physically violent with Cassie on at least one occasion.
"Dawn Richard’s testimony could land with real force if the jury finds her credible, because eyewitness accounts of physical violence -- especially from someone in Diddy’s inner circle -- cut through the 'he said, she said' dynamic and provide direct corroboration of Cassie’s claims," criminal defense attorney Duncan Levin told Fox News Digital.
"Jurors tend to give significant weight to third-party observations, especially if the witness doesn’t appear to have an axe to grind. If her account holds up under cross-examination, it could seriously undercut any defense theory that Cassie is exaggerating or fabricating," the lawyer, who previously worked on Harvey Weinstein's defense team, explained.
Diddy's trial resumed Monday with more testimony from Richard.
Sean “Diddy” Combs is currently on trial for charges of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, and transportation to engage in prostitution.
In addition to facing life in prison, the rapper is also at risk of losing the many assets he has built up since becoming a music mogul, including his mansions, cars, a private jet, and even his Bad Boy Records label.
The mogul owns several homes in the U.S., including a nearly $40 million home in the Los Angeles neighborhood of Holmby Hills, another one he bought near Los Angeles in Toluca Lake for $5.25 million, two side-by-side waterfront homes on Miami Beach's Star Island that he paid $35 million and $14.5 million for, as well as a nearly $3 million Miami condo, according to Realtor.com.
"The properties themselves could be included or referenced in the indictment as a means that served the ends of those alleged crimes, and they could be seized," Priya Sopori, Partner at Greenberg Glusker and a member of the firm’s litigation group, told Fox News Digital last year.
Diddy also owns a Gulfstream G550 jet through his LoveAir LLC valued at around $25 million, as well as a luxury car collection estimated to be worth around $1.6 million last year.
In addition to his material belongings, Diddy’s business enterprises could also be at risk, including Big Boy Records, which he started in 1993. The company still makes money through music and publishing rights, but its value has plummeted because of his allegations, according to USA Today.
His other businesses under the parent company, Combs Global, are also at risk of being seized. These include Combs Wines and Spirits, Revolt Media, Sean John fashion and fragrances brand and his nonprofit, the Sean Combs Foundation.
Fox News Digital’s Brie Stimson contributed to this report.
Testimony in Sean "Diddy" Combs' trial will resume Monday with former Danity Kane singer Dawn Richard.
The musician began her testimony Friday, alleging she witnessed Diddy physically assault his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura. Richard's testimony followed Cassie's own and corroborated Cassie's claims she experienced violence at the hands of Combs.
“Richard’s testimony is highly impactful because it corroborates Ventura’s account," former federal prosecutor Neama Rahamani told Fox News Digital. "Her witnessing Combs attempt to hit Ventura with a skillet, kick her when she was in the fetal position, and drag her by the hair was one of the most graphic of the trial so far. Richard also [allegedly] suffered her own abuse. She [claims she] was groped and threatened not to speak out."
"The prosecution has to corroborate Ventura’s testimony with that of independent witnesses," the West Coast Trial Lawyers founder explained. "The defense scored points with Ventura’s emails and text messages. But Richard’s testimony shows a pattern of physical violence and helps rebut the defense’s argument that the conduct was consensual.”
Sean “Diddy” Combs returned to court for the second week of testimony in the rapper’s sex-trafficking trial.
Diddy entered the courtroom this morning wearing what appears to be a camel colored sweater. The rapper spent a few minutes standing, before sitting down. He then chatted with his lawyer, Marc Agnifilo.
Diddy is facing multiple counts of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion and transporting for prostitution. His indictment was unsealed after his arrest in September 2024.
The jury in his federal trial, which is expected to last eight weeks, have heard testimony from former Intercontinental Hotel security guard Israel Florez, male escort Daniel Phillip, Diddy’s ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura and HSI special agent Yasin Binda.
Testimony will resume Monday with former Danity Kane singer, Dawn Richard.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Former Danity Kane singer, Dawn Richard, was called to the stand Friday as a witness for the prosecution in the federal trial against Sean “Diddy” Combs for sex crimes.
She first began working with the disgraced rapper in 2004 when she was 21 years old and was competing on the reality show, “Making the Band,” for a spot in the new girl group, Danity Kane.
Richard made the band, which broke up in 2009, and went on to work with Diddy again as part of the trio, Diddy - Dirty Money, alongside the rapper and Kalenna Harper.
The singer filed a lawsuit against Diddy in September 2024, alleging “years of inhumane working conditions which included groping, assault, and false imprisonment.”
“She’s an accomplished woman and she’s all about the music,” Richard’s lawyer, Lisa Bloom, told “Daily Mail’s The Trial of Diddy” podcast when the lawsuit was filed. “All she wants to do is make music and be a musician. And yet, she found herself in the position—after Cassie Ventura came forward—of saying, ‘I need to come forward too, in support of Cassie, and in support of others, to tell my own story.’”
In response to her allegations, Diddy’s lawyer released a statement claiming the rapper was “shocked and disappointed by this lawsuit” calling it “an attempt to rewrite history” by Richard.
Richard will continue her testimony Monday.
While there is "no question" that Cassie Ventura was victimized by Sean "Diddy" Combs, the government still has to prove the rapper engaged in racketeering, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution.
"The question we are left with from Week 1 is: Was Cassie Ventura victimized in such a way to amount to the specific federal charges in his indictment?" criminal defense attorney Phil Harvey told Fox News Digital.
"Those jurors are going to eventually get a set of legal instructions from the judge," Harvey said. "Those jury instructions are going to make it clear: This is not an assault trial. It's not a rape trial. And it's not a morality play. Instead, the jurors will be asked if the government manages to prove three types of federal crimes: racketeering, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution.
"If the jurors get to deliberation, and all they have is a lot of evidence that Mr. Combs is a depraved soul who may have committed assault, battery and even rape, those jurors can still acquit him."
The trial, which began May 12 with opening statements, is expected to last eight weeks. Combs has been in jail since his arrest in September 2024, after his Los Angeles and Miami homes were raided by law enforcement.
Fox News Digital's Tracy Wright contributed to this report
After spending four days testifying in Sean "Diddy" Comb's sex-trafficking trial, the rapper's ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura said she was happy to "put this chapter of my life to rest."
Cassie's lawyer, Douglas Wigdor, read a statement on behalf of the "Me & U" singer outside of the Manhattan courthouse Friday.
"This week has been extremely challenging, but also remarkably empowering and healing for me," Cassie's statement read. "I hope that my testimony has given strength and a voice to other survivors, and can help others who have suffered to speak up and also heal from abuse and fear. For me, the more I heal, the more I can remember, and the more I can remember, the more I will never forget."
"I want to thank my family and my advocates for their unwavering support, and am grateful for all the kindness and encouragement I have received," her statement continued. "I am glad to put this chapter of my life to rest. As I turn to focus on the conclusion of my pregnancy, I ask for privacy for me and my growing family."
Cassie spent a grueling four days on the stand, where she testified about the alleged physical abuse she suffered from Diddy throughout their 10-year long relationship. The singer-songwriter also told the jury she was forced to participate in alleged "freak offs" at the demand of the disgraced music mogul, where Diddy would require Cassie to have sex with male escorts in front of him.
Read more about Cassie's testimony in the Diddy federal trial.
Cassie Ventura testified in week one of the federal trial against Sean “Diddy” Combs for sex crimes, giving crucial testimony as the government’s “star witness,” says criminal defense attorney, Phil Harvey. She was on the stand for four days.
Diddy’s former girlfriend of over a decade testified about the alleged abuse she experienced at the hands of the disgraced rapper, claiming she was physically abused and forced to participate in “freak offs” where Diddy would coerce her into having sex with a male escort while he watched.
Cassie also testified to using drugs to disassociate during the “freak offs,” which she claimed would sometimes last for days.
The prosecution finished the direct examination of Cassie on Wednesday. That same day, Cassie told the jury she chose to testify against Diddy because she could no longer carry the guilt.
Harvey also pointed out the wins from Diddy’s defense team, saying Anna Estevao, who cross examined Cassie, "did a good job staying on track,” and got Cassie to say she “willingly participated” in the “freak offs” and focused on the “consensual nature of their relationship.”
The defense also showed the jury texts featuring Combs congratulating Cassie on her pregnancy and checking in on her.
Cassie also testified about the assault at the hotel in 2016, alleging she was trying to leave a “freak off” when Diddy attacked her.
On May 12, former hotel security guard Israel Florez, who responded after Diddy’s violent attack on Cassie at the Intercontinental Hotel, testified that he tried to call police after intervening, but Cassie told him not to.
To end the first week, the jury also heard from former Danity Kane singer, Dawn Richard, who testified that she witnessed Diddy assaulting Cassie in 2009. Richard told the court that after she "observed Cassie being attacked," the "Last Night" rapper told her it was par for the course in a normal relationship. Richard will continue her testimony on May 19.
Fox News Digital’s Tracy Wright contributed to this report.
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