Cassie testifies against Sean 'Diddy' Combs in sex trafficking case

Cassie Ventura, Sean 'Diddy' Combs (Getty Images)

Judge Arun Subramanian dismissed the jury in Sean "Diddy" Combs' federal sex crimes trial just after 5 p.m. Tuesday.

He instructed the jury not to talk to anyone, and to disable alerts on their phones, especially from news organizations.

Diddy's defense team said they planned to submit a letter about sealed exhibits.

The U.S. Attorney's Office said "Victim 2" objected to the press being able to view any explicit videos or pictures because they were "humiliating to the victim."

The judge noted he's not suggesting the videos would be required to be shown in court if it meant revictimizing a person.

Cassie Ventura was on the stand today and detailed her experiences with freak-offs. She testified to using drugs, including ketamine and cocaine, during the freak-offs as a way to disassociate.

She testified that she would almost always get sick from the drugs, and often vomited. Diddy was allegedly aware that she was sick while engaged in a freak-off.

The pregnant model testified Tuesday that he requested escorts, and while she never reached out for escorts independently, Diddy wanted to make sure the person was "safe" and not a cop.

Cassie found the escorts through “Cowboys for Angels” or Craigslist. Cassie testified that she did not post ads, but would respond to them. She explained communication always occurred via text and noted she often didn’t give much notice when an escort was needed.

Cassie recalled one instance when there was a blow up pool they filled with oil. She explained she got in because “you couldn’t say no.” Cassie was concerned about Combs’ temper if she didn’t get in, the singer-songwriter told the prosecutor.

"It was humiliating ... just too much," but it was "a position I just couldn't easily get out of," Cassie said of the freak-offs.

Fox News Digital's Lauryn Overhultz and Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie testifying, Cassie and Diddy red carpet (Getty Images)

Sean "Diddy" Combs recorded the freak-offs with Cassie Ventura on video cameras in the beginning before using iPads, phones or computers, Cassie testified.

Cassie told Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson that she did not want to be recorded during the sexual encounters. Following a freak-off, Diddy and Cassie would watch the videos.

Freak-offs could often include two-three sessions, Cassie testified. A freak-off could include two-three different men.

She testified that she never wanted to have additional sessions with an escort, but would follow through because "Sean would want to do more."

On more than one occasion, freak-offs included more than one escort, Cassie said. She told the court she "didn't want this," and "it was more than enough."

She felt as though the sessions were like porn and she was an object being objectified by men.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Sean "Diddy" Combs enjoyed the process of a freak-off, and had a particular pattern he would follow, Cassie Ventura testified.

The "All About the Benjamins" rapper decided the pattern, and took pleasure in watching the baby oil be poured, touching, oral sex and then sexual intercourse.

Diddy instructed Cassie and the escort to look at each other when they were engaged in the freak-off. She would describe what was going on in detail, as "that is what turned Sean on."

Cassie testified that the experience of describing a man's genitalia to another man was "awkward."

After the description process, Cassie had to ask Diddy if it was OK to move on from the touching portion with the escort to oral sex and beyond. She had to ask for permission because Diddy's fantasy was about having "control."

Cassie would go through the motions just to "get to the room" with Diddy alone.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie Ventura (Getty Images)

Cassie Ventura used ketamine and other drugs before freak-offs with Sean "Diddy" Combs.

During testimony in Diddy's federal sex crimes trial, Cassie admitted she would take drugs before arriving at a hotel, and would consistently use during a freak-off as the high was wearing off.

"I needed to remain high to stay present with the experience," she told Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson.  She did this "because it was something I didn't like doing."

Cassie admitted that ecstasy made her feel euphoric and aroused, while ketamine would make her dissociative. Cocaine made her heart race, and mushrooms made her see things. GHB, also known as the date-rape drug, made her feel drunk.

She testified that she would almost always get sick from the drugs, and often vomited. Diddy was aware that she was sick while engaged in a freak-off.

Fox News Digital's Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Diddy allegedly did not want his identity known when booking travel for "freak offs." (Getty Images)

Cassie Ventura testified that Sean "Diddy" Combs did not want his “identity known.”

The rapper’s ex claimed Diddy would ask if the escorts needed to travel for the “freak offs." Cassie explained she once reached out to Diddy’s travel agent and referred to an escort as a new employee in order to book the needed travel.

“It was important to Sean not to have his identity known,” she told the jury.

The jury has heard testimony about Diddy's alleged “freak offs,” which sometimes happened at hotels or often at Diddy’s own homes, for the past two days. The “freak offs” would sometimes last for days at a time and became a job for Cassie, she testified.

"The freak-offs became a job. There was no space for anything else but to recover," she said on the stand during Diddy's federal sex crimes trial.

Most "freak offs" would allegedly last between 24-72 hours. She claimed the longest freak off was four days. When she wasn't participating, she was recovering from "the drugs, dehydration, staying awake."

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Diddy and Cassie split in 2018. (Getty Images)

Cassie Ventura claimed she used drugs during every “freak off” during her testimony Tuesday.

“For me, it was dissociative…I couldn’t imagine doing that without some sort of buffer,” she told Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson.

Cassie claimed at times the escort would also take drugs. The drugs were allegedly dropped off for Cassie by Diddy’s staff and she would ask Diddy how far in advance to take them before the “freak offs.”

Cassie has spent most of Tuesday’s court day recalling details of Diddy’s “freak offs.” According to Cassie, Diddy brought up voyeurism within the first six months to a year of the couple’s relationship.

She testified that Combs paid for her entire lifestyle, which included cars, clothing and trips. In addition, the "Last Night" rapper would provide Cassie spending money.

Cassie testified her ex-boyfriend would "take things away if she wasn't doing what she was asked."

At times, Diddy would record videos of Cassie engaging in sex acts with male escorts during encounters he called “freak offs.” The musician testified that she worried he would release the videos to the public and claimed the blackmail hung over her head throughout their relationship.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Misa Hylton outside the courthouse during Diddy's trial. (Getty Images)

Sean “Diddy” Combs’ baby mama Misa Hylton departed the courthouse rather unceremoniously during the break in Cassie's testimony.

Hylton has attended Diddy’s trial both days so far, showing up for opening statements on Monday and Cassie’s testimony Tuesday.

The fashion designer and stylist walked out and climbed into a car while the driver stowed her walker in the trunk. She did not answer any questions from reporters.

Hylton and Diddy dated in the early 1990s. The two share a son, Justin Combs, who was born in December 1993.

Justin has also attended both days of Diddy’s trial.

Fox News' Brendan McDonald contributed to this report.

Diddy and Cassie (Getty Images)

Cassie Ventura was tasked with recruiting freak-off participants for sexual escapades with Sean "Diddy" Combs.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson asked Cassie what kind of conversations she would have with Diddy about the escorts.

The pregnant model testified Tuesday that she never reached out for escorts independently, and Diddy wanted to make sure the person was "safe" and not a cop.

She would save the escorts name in her phone with the abbreviated word "strip," she said.

When Cassie would reach out, she told the escorts her husband was into voyeurism and liked to watch her with another man.

She was required to tell the escort that it was "her husband's fantasy" and would then tell them how she wanted to please Diddy.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie Ventura claimed she was responsible for finding Diddy escorts. (Getty Images)

At some point, Cassie Ventura allegedly became responsible for locating male escorts to participate in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ “freak offs.”

Cassie found the escorts through “Cowboys for Angels” or Craigslist. Cassie testified that she did not post ads, but would respond to them. She explained communication always occurred via text and noted she often didn’t give much notice when an escort was needed.

Cassie testified she would show a photo of the potential escort to Diddy to see if he was a person of interest.

The musician claimed Diddy had contacts with escorts and would reach out as well. She explained she never reached out to escorts independently.

When Cassie would reach out, she would allegedly tell the escorts her husband was into voyeurism and liked to watch her with another man.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie and Diddy (Getty Images)

Cassie Ventura described the physical and emotional toll from the freak-offs while on the stand for Sean "Diddy" Combs federal trial.

Diddy's ex-girlfriend testified there were times when the fallen music mogul "would pee himself" or have an escort "pee on me."

She said she did not want Diddy or escorts relieving themselves on her. "It was a turn on for him, so it happened," Cassie testified.

She added, "It was humiliating ... just too much," but it was "a position I just couldn't easily get out of."

Cassie testified that linens were also ruined during the freak-offs.

While at the helm of the organization, officials claimed Combs and a number of un-named associates in the Combs Enterprise, used intimidation tactics to "lure female victims into Combs' orbit, often under the pretense of a romantic relationship."

He would then use "force, threats of force, and coercion, to cause victims to engage in extended sex acts with male commercial sex workers that Combs referred to as, among other things, 'Freak Offs,'" according to the indictment.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Sean "Diddy" Combs allegedly had everyone use baby oil during the "freak offs." (Getty Images)

Cassie Ventura testified that Sean “Diddy” Combs once forced her into a baby oil-filled pool.

During Tuesday’s testimony, Diddy’s ex described how the rapper allegedly liked to use baby oil during the “freak offs.”

Cassie recalled one instance when there was a blow up pool they filled with oil. She explained she got in because “you couldn’t say no.” Cassie was concerned about Combs’ temper if she didn’t get in, the singer-songwriter told the prosecutor.

Cassie testified that the supplies for the “freak offs,” baby oil, Astroglide, lubricants and condoms, were provided by Diddy’s assistants or security.

All participants in the "freak offs" used baby oil, according to Cassie. She claimed it was always heated, per Diddy’s request. Baby oil was used so they were “glistening,” she said. Diddy allegedly had them apply the oil every 5 minutes.

“If he felt you were too dry, he would let you know…you need to be shining,” she told the jury. Diddy would direct the “freak offs,” but Cassie “knew what to do.” She testified it was “a very choreographed experience.”

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie testified about the alleged "freak offs" during Tuesday's testimony. (Getty Images)

Cassie Ventura became emotional during Tuesday’s testimony.

The former girlfriend of Sean “Diddy” Combs claimed it would be impossible to recall all the “freak offs.”

“I felt pretty horrible about myself,” she told the jury. “I was disgusted. I felt humiliated.”

Cassie said she couldn’t talk about it with anyone, but continued to experience violence from Diddy.

She admitted there were parts of the "freak offs" she enjoyed. Cassie began crying as she explained she felt close to him during the “freak offs” because it was the only time she could be intimate with him. Cassie continued, saying that when you really love someone you don’t want to disappoint them. She became emotional again recalling her experience.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson asked about Cassie talking to Combs “gently.”

Cassie claimed doing the “freak offs” made her “feel horrible” and “worthless” as she choked up again.

Diddy was allegedly dismissive of her concerns. He would call her and she would “back peddle,” Cassie testified.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Diddy and Cassie at the MET Gala (Getty Images)

Cassie Ventura was required to show Sean "Diddy" Combs the outfits she purchased for any of the freak-offs and receive his approval before wearing them.

Diddy requested she wear a wig and "stripper, dancer shoes" with an extremely high heel. She was instructed to keep the shoes on throughout the freak-off.

She testified that it would take "all day" for her to prepare for a freak-off, which included getting her hair and nails done, in addition to waxing and tanning.

Cassie also pierced her nipples and had a clitoris piercing at the request of Diddy. She admitted she thought the piercings looked cool.

"Freak-offs" were "elaborate produced sex performances that Combs arranged, directed, masturbated during, and often electronically recorded," according to the indictment.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie testified about a nickname Diddy wanted her to call him. (Getty Images)

During Cassie Ventura’s testimony, she revealed Sean “Diddy” Combs requested she call him by her grandfather’s nickname.

“It was weird,” Cassie said of the nickname while on the stand.

The prosecution showed the jury an email between Diddy and Cassie. The email was from baby girl (Cassie) to Pop Pop (Diddy).

The subject line read “I really need to f—.”  Diddy replied asking who she planned to sleep with. Cassie testified she sent the email "because I wanted to be with him” referring to Combs.

Cassie claimed she wanted to have sex with Diddy, not the escorts during their relationship.

Testimony about the email continued with Cassie saying she responded, “I want to f— you…are you crazy.”

Cassie became emotional multiple times while testifying about the “freak offs” that occurred with Diddy. She emphasized that she did not want to participate in the sexual encounters but felt she had no choice due to Combs’ angry outbursts.

Her attempts to tell Diddy she did not want to do the “freak offs” anymore ended with her back peddling, she testified.

“I didn’t want to make him angry,” she told the prosecutor.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie testified about the details of Sean "Diddy" Combs' alleged "freak offs." (Jane Rosenberg)

Cassie testified that Sean “Diddy” Combs was in control of every “freak off.”

“Every freak off was directed by Sean…,” she told Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson. Combs would tell her where she would be, what the lighting was, etc. During the first “freak off,” Cassie claimed she was wearing an outfit from a sex store, something with “really high platform shoes.” She also wore a masquerade mask.

Cassie told the jury she took ecstasy before the “freak off.” The singer said she was high “so there wasn’t too much feeling…a mixture of dirty and confusion…he’s happy with me, so I did something right…”

She claimed the next “freak off” occurred shortly after. Cassie testified she experienced the same nervousness, “What am I going to do. I can’t say no.” She “ultimately said yes.”

“I didn’t want to make him upset,” she told the assistant U.S. attorney. “I didn’t want to make him angry.”

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie and Diddy (Getty Images)

Throughout their 12-year relationship, Cassie Ventura lived in fear of Sean "Diddy" Combs.

Cassie read an email on the stand Tuesday she sent to the "I'll Be Missing You" singer where she told him she wanted to be with him sexually, not the escorts. She asked to no longer participate in the freak-offs.

She tried to back peddle after she sent the note because she "didn't want to make him angry."

Cassie backtracked in the email and told Diddy it wasn't how she truly felt because she "didn't want him to be upset."

"He was a scary person," she testified. "He was violent."

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie testified on why she agreed to Diddy's "freak offs." (Getty Images)

Cassie testified she tried the freak-off" because she wanted to keep Sean "Diddy" Combs in good spirits.

"I wanted to make him happy," she said. "I loved him."

She recalled the first sexually-charged party taking place at one of his homes.

Prosecutors presented photos of the escort who participated in the first freak-off, to which Cassie couldn't recall his name. She understood him to be a dancer, though.

Cassie was aware that the escort was paid to both entertain and dance, in addition to having intercourse with her. Diddy paid for the escort.

She took ecstasy before the freak-off, and wore an outfit from a sex shop that included "really high platform shoes."

After taking the drugs, Cassie said Diddy spoke with the escort who would dance while Diddy watched.

"Every freak off was directed by Sean," Cassie testified, which included her positions, the lighting, etc. Eventually they were instructed to put baby oil on each other.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie testified in Diddy's trial on Tuesday. (Jane Rosenberg)

Cassie Ventura described Sean “Diddy” Combs’  “fantasy” of seeing her with another man while on the stand Tuesday.

According to Cassie, Diddy brought up voyeurism within the first six months to a year of the couple’s relationship. The musician was in her early 20s when she began a romantic relationship with Diddy. The rapper also allegedly introduced Cassie to swinging, or the act of switching partners with another couple.

Cassie testified she was “shocked” and “didn’t know how to react” to Combs’ fantasy.  At this point, Diddy had allegedly been violent with Cassie. She admitted she was afraid of upsetting him and “really nervous.”

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Sean "Diddy" Combs (Getty Images)

Cassie Ventura had access to each of the safes in Sean "Diddy" Combs' homes, she testified.

Each of the safes were stocked with "cash, jewelry, sometimes tapes, SD cards, cameras and guns."

Cassie testified that Diddy had weapons in his homes in Los Angeles, Miami and New York.

She often saw the guns "laying out" when not secured in a safe.

Members of the Combs Enterprise, including his personal security detail, at times carried firearms, according to the indictment. Combs was accused of carrying or brandishing a firearm to "intimidate and threaten others, including victims of and witnesses to his abuse."

Officials seized firearms and ammunition from Combs' homes in Los Angeles and Miami during the March 25, 2024 raid, which included three AR-15s with defaced serial numbers, as well as a drum magazine.

Cassie Ventura testified Diddy was "very involved" in her appearance. (Getty Images)

Diddy’s ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura claimed the rapper was “very involved” in her appearance throughout the decade the two dated.

Appearance was allegedly “very important” to Diddy. She claimed he told her how to dress, some days sexy, other days like a tom boy. “He was very involved,” Cassie told Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson.

Once Combs even told her she looked "too Mexican" with her hair done a certain way, Cassie claimed.

According to Cassie’s testimony, Diddy was also very specific about how she looked during the “freak offs.” She explained he liked her nails to be white or French tip during the sexual encounters. Diddy was also concerned with the appearance of Cassie’s physical body.

They had discussions about breast implants, she testified. At the time, Cassie said she didn’t have much body and was still developing, and Diddy allegedly made comments about working out and keeping her shape a certain way.

“I had to look a certain way during the freak offs,” she said, alleging Diddy commented on her appearance daily.

Cassie testified she was not shocked by the comments, but they did wear on her.

“My self worth took a hit…” she admitted on the stand.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie Ventura testified that Sean "Diddy" Combs paid for her entire lifestyle, which included cars, clothing and trips.

In addition, the "Last Night" rapper would provide Cassie spending money.

Cassie said her ex-boyfriend would "take things away if she wasn't doing what she was asked."

Diddy kicked her out of the house and took her jewelry away. Cassie said he also took away her "self confidence" by his actions.

Laptops and phones were taken at his discretion as punishment. Diddy would deem when she could have her items back.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie Ventura testified Tuesday in Sean "Diddy" Combs' trial. (Getty Images)

Lunch break is over. Cassie is back on the stand wearing a coat over her brown dress.

Judge Arun Subramanian asked if it was too cold in the courtroom. The direct examination of Cassie is resuming.

Cassie has been testifying about her 10-year long relationship with Sean "Diddy" Combs. She told the jury about the alleged abuse she experienced at the hands of Diddy and explained how she first was introduced to the "freak offs."

Diddy's family has been in court Tuesday to support the rapper. His mother, Janice Combs, and his kids left for the short lunch break and returned without speaking to the press.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this post.

Cassie Ventura admitted her relationship with Sean "Diddy" Combs wasn't always exclusive. (Getty Images)

During her testimony Tuesday, Diddy's ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura , clarified that their relationship was not always exclusive.

Cassie confirmed she sometimes saw other men while Diddy engaged with other women, making her “insanely jealous.”

“I didn’t get that he was him, Puff Daddy, and Puff Daddy has many women,” she told Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson.

While testifying, Cassie detailed the beginning of her relationship with Combs. After meeting in 2005, they began a professional relationship and Diddy signed Cassie to his record label.

A few years later, things turned romantic between the two. When she turned 21, Diddy allegedly began to invite her to meet with him at hotels. Cassie testified she felt “sneaky” with the hotel visits, but wanted to be around him.

The singer-songwriter explained she wanted to be around Diddy because he was an exciting, entertaining, fun guy who had her career in his hands. Cassie said she felt special.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie and Diddy 2016 (Getty Images)

Prosecutors in Sean "Diddy" Combs' federal trial presented a number of exhibits showing the four houses he rented for Cassie to live in while they were in Los Angeles.

One map showed the distance between one of Diddy's houses from an apartment Cassie lived in, and that she would be able to drive or walk between the residences.

Diddy had keys to each of the residences and would visit "whenever he wanted," Cassie testified.

He would come by "frequently ... a lot," she said, and the visits were mostly unannounced.

Cassie described the feeling of her "stomach in knots" because she didn't know what would come from any of the visits with Diddy.

The only "freedom" she had was from a Studio City home she paid for herself, which Diddy accepted.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Alex Fine attends Diddy's trial on May 12. (Getty Images)

During a side-bar moment and out of the presence of the jury, Diddy’s defense made a point of Cassie’s husband, Alex Fine, being present in the courtroom.

Before Cassie took the stand, Diddy’s lawyers claimed they may need to call Fine as a witness when presenting their side and requested that he not be present for his wife's testimony about the alleged rape.

The prosecution said they don’t see how Cassie’s husband can be called to testify about an alleged rape between Cassie and Combs. The government also requested more notice of future witnesses the defense expects to call.

Cassie and Fine began dating in 2018 and married the following year. They welcomed their first child two months after their wedding and their second in March 2021.

In February 2025, Cassie and Fine announced they were pregnant with their third child.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie and Diddy in 2018 (Getty Images)

Cassie testified that freak-offs with Sean "Diddy" Combs would last for days at a time.

"The freak-offs became a job. There was no space for anything else but to recover," she said on the stand during Diddy's federal sex crimes trial.

Cassie recorded hundreds of songs during their relationship, but only some of the music was released. She said when she wasn't working on music, she was "recovering."

The freak-offs would last between 24-72 hours. She recalled the longest freak-off was four days. When she wasn't participating, she was recovering from "the drugs, dehydration, staying awake."

"Freak-offs" were "elaborate produced sex performances that Combs arranged, directed, masturbated during, and often electronically recorded," according to the indictment.

Combs and his staff allegedly transported commercial sex workers across state lines and internationally for the "Freak Offs," which regularly occurred and sometimes lasted multiple days, often including multiple sex workers.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Sean "Diddy" Combs in court on May 13. (Jane Rosenberg)

Cassie Ventura described Sean “Diddy” Combs’ mood swings and how they impacted her during Tuesday’s trial testimony.

Cassie, who dated Diddy from 2007 until 2018, claimed Diddy’s mood varied and could change during a conversation that she had nothing to do with.

“It swung different ways, quite a bit,” she told Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson. At times, she would notice Combs become agitated, zoned out, lose focus or become angry.

Cassie claimed Diddy’s mood swings sometimes led to abuse, telling the jury that “making the wrong face” could get her hit.

Diddy would also inform her that she was “being a brat" if she wasn't smiling.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie Ventura sued Sean "Diddy" Combs in 2023. (Getty Images)

Cassie Ventura testified she handed over evidence regarding Sean “Diddy” Combs to the United States government in December 2023.

Cassie had settled a civil lawsuit against Sean “Diddy” Combs just a month prior. In her lawsuit, Cassie specifically accused Diddy of raping her in her own home and forcing her to have sex with male prostitutes while he watched and filmed. The R&B singer also alleged Diddy "punched, beat, kicked and stomped" on her.

The rapper denied Cassie’s allegations at the time.

"After years in silence and darkness, I am finally ready to tell my story, and to speak up on behalf of myself and for the benefit of other women who face violence and abuse in their relationships," Cassie told Fox News Digital in a statement at the time. "With the expiration of New York’s Adult Survivors Act fast approaching, it became clear that this was an opportunity to speak up about the trauma I have experienced and that I will be recovering from for the rest of my life.”

The former couple settled the lawsuit outside of court just one day later.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie, Diddy (Getty Images)

Sean "Diddy" Combs signed Cassie Ventura to a contract with his Bad Boy Records label in 2006 when she was 19.

She released one album with the disgraced rapper in 2006.

Before she met Diddy, Cassie was a fan of his music and knew he was "larger than life," but was unaware of his personal life.

She testified to feeling "special" being around the "Last Night" singer, who was "exciting, entertaining and a fun guy who had her career in his hands."

After a trip to Miami, Cassie became one of his girlfriends, despite assuming they were in a "monogamous relationship." She says she was his "shadow" and she experienced her "first real adult relationship."

She recalled his lifestyle being different, and said he received "respect from everyone."

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie Ventura heads to day 2 of Diddy's sex-trafficking trial. (BACKGRID)

Sean “Diddy” Combs’ ex-girlfriend Cassie described the rapper as “really polarizing” during her trial testimony Tuesday.

At times, Diddy would record videos of Cassie engaging in sex acts with male escorts during encounters he called “freak offs.” The musician testified that she worried he would release the videos to the public and claimed the blackmail hung over her head throughout their relationship.

“Sean’s a really polarizing person,” Cassie told Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson. “He’s also really charming…hard to decide what he needs…I just didn’t know what would happen.”

The blackmail materials included videos of the “freak offs” and sometimes even included Diddy himself, Cassie testified.

When Diddy first proposed the concept of the “freak offs” to Cassie, she was confused. Cassie testified she was nervous, but also loved Diddy very much and wanted to make him happy.

Over time, Cassie claimed the “freak offs” became something she didn’t want to do but continued to because Diddy would ask. It allegedly got to the point where she felt she had no choice.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie, Diddy (Getty Images)

Sean "Diddy" Combs' ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, testified Tuesday that she was "nervous" about participating in freak-offs with the disgraced music mogul.

Cassie admitted she "didn't have a concept of how" they would be a turn on for Diddy, but also "loved him very much and wanted to make him happy."

The former couple met in 2005 and ended their relationship in 2018.

Cassie said that over time, the freak-offs became something she didn't want to do, but she continued because Diddy would ask, and "it got to the point where she didn't feel like she had a choice." She feared what a "no" could turn into.

Ultimately, Diddy "controlled a lot of my life," from her career, to the way that she dressed, Cassie testified. She was "young, naive, and wasn't sure if he would get violent."

Cassie accused Diddy of rape and years of abuse in a bombshell lawsuit filed in November 2023, but one day later, the former couple settled the suit for an undisclosed sum.

Fox News Digital's Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie claimed Diddy was violent during their 10-year relationship. (Getty Images)

Diddy’s ex-girlfriend Cassie testified Tuesday about the years of abuse she allegedly endured during their relationship.

The two dated from 2007 until 2018 before ending things. Cassie testified that there were breaks in the relationship, which was often violent.

Diddy and Cassie's “violent arguments would usually result in some sort of physical abuse,” she told Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson. Cassie described Diddy smashing her in the head, dragging her, and kicking her.

Cassie testified Diddy was violent “too frequently.”

At times, the violent outbursts allegedly injured Cassie. The 38-year-old singer-songwriter claimed she dealt with knocks in the forehead, busted lips, black eyes and bruises all over her body.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie Ventura testifies in Sean "Diddy" Combs' sex-trafficking trial. (Getty Images)

Cassie Ventura took the stand at Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sex-trafficking trial on Tuesday.

The 38-year-old musician is set to testify about her allegedly abusive relationship with Diddy. The two dated on and off from 2007 until 2018. When Cassie met Diddy, she was 19 years old and signed to his record label. A few years later, Diddy allegedly “lured” her into a relationship.

Cassie claimed she endured "over a decade" of Diddy's "violent behavior and disturbed demands" in a lawsuit filed in November 2023. She settled the lawsuit with Diddy outside of court just one day after filing.

"After years in silence and darkness, I am finally ready to tell my story, and to speak up on behalf of myself and for the benefit of other women who face violence and abuse in their relationships," she told Fox News Digital in a statement at the time. "With the expiration of New York’s Adult Survivors Act fast approaching, it became clear that this was an opportunity to speak up about the trauma I have experienced and that I will be recovering from for the rest of my life."

Cassie’s claims in her civil lawsuit are at the heart of Diddy’s federal indictment. The musician claimed Combs would force her into having sex with male escorts at hotels during encounters he labeled “freak offs.”

A male escort, who had multiple sexual encounters with Sean “Diddy” Combs and Cassie, recalled the aftermath of an alleged physical altercation between the two during Tuesday testimony.

Daniel Phillip told Assistant U.S. Attorney Maurene Comey that after Diddy allegedly beat Cassie, he tried to get the male escort to have sex with the singer. However, Phillip explained that he couldn’t. He testified that he was “completely in my head…I was completely shocked…”

At the time, Phillip could see “that [Cassie] was afraid…really upset…could see in her face she was crying a lot.”

Phillip recalled sitting on the couch with Cassie while she allegedly grabbed at his shoulders.  But the escort claimed he “was completely messed up” and couldn’t engage.

Comey asked Phillip again what Combs said to the escort and Cassie after the alleged beating. Phillip testified that Combs asked if they were ready to go, which meant if they were ready to have sex.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Male escort Daniel Phillip testifies in Diddy's sex-trafficking trial on May 12. (Elizabeth Williams via AP)

Male escort Daniel Phillip admitted on the stand he would have dated Cassie if given the chance.

Phillip revealed during cross-examination Tuesday that he developed romantic feelings for Cassie during their encounters. He told Sean “Diddy” Combs’ lawyer , Xavier Donaldson, that he would have dated Cassie if she would have let him.

However, the male escort told Assistant U.S. Attorney Maurene Comey that he never spoke with Cassie outside of the sexual encounters with the singer and Combs. Phillip also claimed Cassie never responded to his texts if he initiated conversation with her.

Phillip testified about his first sexual encounter with Combs and Cassie on Monday. The male escort claimed he arrived under the pretense that he was stripping for a bachelorette party.

The male escort met with Cassie and Diddy multiple times. Each encounter between the trio would last anywhere from one hour to 10 hours, he testified Monday.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Cassie Ventura and Diddy dated for over a decade. (Getty Images)

Male escort Daniel Phillip testified on Tuesday that Sean “Diddy” Combs’ ex-girlfriend Cassie didn’t appear high or drunk during their first sexual encounter.

Phillip told Diddy’s lawyer Xavier Donaldson that he also did not see Cassie take any drugs.

The male escort was called as the prosecution's second witness on Monday and described an incident that took place at the Gramercy Park Hotel in New York. He claimed he initially believed he was going to a bachelorette party and would be stripping. Once he arrived, Cassie allegedly requested the male escort rub baby oil on her. She also told him her “husband” was there, but that he was not gay and wouldn’t touch him.

The male escort testified that he didn’t recognize Diddy at first because his face was covered, but knew it was the rapper once he spoke.

Phillip also testified that he saw or heard Diddy become violent with Cassie at least two times.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

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Sean “Diddy” Combs was known just as much for his music as he was for his lavish lifestyle and hosting opulent parties for A-list celebrity friends.

In the wake of his federal indictment, Hollywood's elite gained unwanted attention and scrutiny due to their recent and past ties to the music mogul despite not being implicated in Diddy's criminal case.

Ashton Kutcher and Diddy had a yearslong friendship, and collaborated in both entertainment and philanthropic events.

Usher was introduced to Diddy in 1994, and lived with Diddy when he was just a teenager.

During an interview with Rolling Stone in 2004, Usher said Diddy "introduced me to a totally different set of s---, sex, specifically. … There was always girls around. You’d open a door and see somebody doing it, or several people in a room having an orgy." 

Diddy’s relationship with Justin Bieber began when the “Sorry” singer had recently embarked on his career. 

In a resurfaced 2009 video from Bieber's YouTube channel, "Bieber's 48 Hours with Diddy," Diddy tells the camera, "Where we’re hanging out and what we’re doing, we can’t really disclose, but it’s definitely a 15-year-old’s dream."

These celebrities have not been accused of any wrongdoing.

Sean "Diddy" Combs in court on May 12. (Elizabeth Williams via AP)

Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sex-trafficking trial resumed Tuesday with the prosecution’s second witness.

Daniel Phillip, a male escort, testified Monday that he witnessed the rapper grab ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura by the hair following one meet-up.

During one encounter at Cassie's home, Phillip recalled witnessing what he believed was a liquor bottle fly across the room after Cassie didn't immediately respond to Diddy's calling.

Diddy then allegedly "grabbed Cassie by her hair" and dragged her to a bedroom, where Phillip recalled hearing Cassie screaming. He claimed some of the noises sounded like Combs slamming Cassie.

Phillip alleged hearing Cassie beg for forgiveness, only to hear Diddy threaten her, "B---h, when I tell you to come, you come."

The jury also heard from Israel Florez, the former security guard at the Intercontinental Hotel. Combs and Cassie got into a physical altercation in March 2016 at the hotel, as seen in surveillance video previously published by CNN.

Fox News' Maria Paronich and Fox News Digital's Tracy Wright contributed to this report.

Sean "Diddy" Combs in court on the first day of trial. (Jane Rosenberg)

Sean “Diddy” Combs arrived at court for the second day of his sex trafficking trial.

Judge Arun Subramanian took the bench at 9:16am ET. Diddy entered the courtroom about a minute later wearing a sweater. The rapper hugged his lawyers and turned to face his family briefly.

Court is set to resume with the prosecution's second witness, male escort Daniel Phillip. Yesterday, Phillip testified about various sexual encounters he had with Diddy and Cassie. He described acts they had him perform and products they used, including the baby oil. The escort also testified about two instances where he saw and/or heard Diddy abuse Cassie.

Diddy appeared calm before opening statements on Monday. He sat reading the Bible as he waited for jury selection to begin.

The prosecution claimed Combs ran a criminal enterprise for 20 years and described the violent relationships he had with both Cassie and an anonymous woman, "Jane.” They accused Diddy of using lies, drugs, threats and violence to force Cassie and Jane to have sex with escorts. Diddy would record the encounters and threaten to release the videos if the women didn't comply with his demands, according to the prosecution.

Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Janice Combs, mother of Sean "Diddy" Combs, arrives to the courthouse in New York, Tuesday, May 13, 2025. CREDIT: Rashid Umar Abbasi for Fox News Digital

Sean “Diddy” Combs’ family returned to the courtroom Tuesday to continue their support of the disgraced music mogul.

Diddy’s mother, Janice Combs arrived ahead of court, along with a his children Justin, Christian, Quincy, Chance, Jesse and D’Lila. The family was also joined by Chance's mom, Sarah Chapman.

His kids spoke out about their father’s arrest in October, a month after Diddy was arrested in NYC.

"The past month has devastated our family," they wrote in a joint post shared in October. "Many have judged both him and us based on accusations, conspiracy theories, and false narratives that have spiraled into absurdity on social media."

"We stand united, supporting you every step of the way. We hold onto the truth, knowing it will prevail, and nothing will break the strength of our family. WE MISS YOU & LOVE YOU DAD."

Janice previously defended Diddy in a statement shared with Fox News Digital at the time.

"It is heartbreaking to see my son judged not for the truth, but for a narrative created out of lies," Janice Combs wrote, in part, this past October. "To bear witness what seems to be like a public lynching of my son before he has had the opportunity to prove his innocence is a pain too unbearable to put into words. Like every human being, my son deserves to have his day in court, to finally share his side, and to prove his innocence."

Teny Geragos arrives at Federal court on the second day of the Sean "Diddy" Combs trial in New York City, NY, Tuesday, May 12, 2025. (Rashid Umar Abbasi for Fox News Digital)

Sean “Diddy” Combs’ lawyer Teny Geragos arrived at court Tuesday.

Teny, the daughter of famed lawyer Mark Geragos, signed on to represent the disgraced music mogul shortly after Diddy was arrested and charged with federal sex crimes in September.

Teny graduated from Loyola Law School Los Angeles in 2016 and worked with Brafman & Associates for eight years before becoming a founding partner of Agnifilo Intrater.

The disgraced music mogul may benefit in court by having a woman lead his defense, criminal defense lawyer Jo-Anna Nieves explained to Fox News Digital.

Her presence in the courtroom defending Diddy "sends an unspoken message to the jury that 'if a smart, credible woman like Geragos doesn't believe these allegations, maybe you shouldn't either,'" Nieves said.

"This can especially impact jurors who are on the fence."

Teny led opening statements telling the jury, "Sean Combs is a complicated man, but this is not a complicated case.”

She accused the government of trying to turn a real-life relationship into a sex-trafficking and racketeering case. The defense lawyer admitted to Combs' violence, telling the jury they will see "indefensible" behavior from Diddy.

Fox News Digital's Tracy Wright and Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

Reuters, Getty Images

Sean "Diddy" Combs pleaded not guilty to an updated version of the federal indictment against the rapper during a March court hearing.

Diddy, 55, appeared in a Manhattan courtroom wearing a tan jumpsuit, and showed noticeably grayer hair.

His mother, Janice Combs, and four of his children were present in the courtroom. At the end of the hearing, Diddy turned to his family and blew a two-handed kiss.

The new indictment against Diddy lengthened the timeline of his alleged sex-trafficking and racketeering behavior and added two more unnamed victims. 

The prosecution also accused the "Last Night" rapper of forcing employees to work long hours by threatening them with physical or reputational harm and forcing an employee to engage in a sexual encounter with the musician.

The sides also discussed evidence to be used during trial – including footage previously obtained by CNN and shared publicly showing Diddy assaulting his then-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura.

Prosecutors argued this was critical evidence for their case against Diddy, while his team claimed the video was deceptive. The rapper's legal team said a forensic analysis of the video showed it had been sped up and the order of events had been changed.

CNN denied the allegations in a statement to Fox News Digital.

The prosecution expects the government's case to take six weeks to lay out, while Diddy's legal team estimates needing two weeks to argue the rapper's defense.

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Sean “Diddy” Combs is facing prison time following his arrest in September 2024 on charges of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion and transportation to engage in prostitution.

If found guilty, the music mogul is facing a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison. He was denied a proposed $50 million bail during a federal court hearing shortly after his arrest and has been held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York since.

"Mr. Combs is a fighter. He's going to fight this to the end," Diddy's lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, said outside the courthouse after Diddy's arraignment. "He's innocent. He came to New York to establish his innocence. He's not afraid. He's not afraid of the charges."

The prosecution expects the government's case to take six weeks to lay out, while Diddy's legal team estimates needing two weeks to argue the rapper's defense.

Diddy has denied the allegations against him.

Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Coachella

For years, Sean "Diddy" Combs had been known to be one of the most successful, multifaceted artists in the industry.

From producing multi-platinum records for various artists to founding Bad Boy Enterprises to throwing the most extravagant parties, the fallen music mogul arrested on multiple sex trafficking charges in September has been a topic of conversation for quite some time. 

Despite nostalgic hits such as "I'll Be Missing You" and "Can’t Nobody Hold Me Down" and producing songs for stars like Mariah Carey and Jennifer Lopez, some fans are now questioning whether the allegations warrant a boycott of his music.

"So are we boycotting Diddy’s music for sure? If I stop listening to the songs he made/produced/collaborated on I’m going to lose 80% of the music from my era and I’m all about the throwbacks! Panicking!!" one X user wrote at the time.

With Diddy's career and legacy in question, the popularity of his music is bound to take a hit. 

This is an excerpt from an article written by Fox News' Christina Dugan Ramirez .

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The federal judge in Sean "Diddy" Combs' sex trafficking case dealt the rapper a huge blow just weeks before the start of his trial.

Judge Arun Subramanian previously denied Diddy's motion to exclude video evidence from the trial of the rapper physically assaulting ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura. 

The defense argued the video, initially published by CNN, had been digitally altered. The prosecution claimed minor adjustments had been made and noted the person who shot the video would be testifying during the estimated two-month trial.

Diddy's team also began to mount the rapper's defense against the sex trafficking charges lobbed at the disgraced music mogul, claiming he was just a "swinger." The argument provided by the defense comes as the prosecution revealed Diddy rejected a plea deal offer.

This is an excerpt from an article written by Fox News' Lauryn Overhultz and Kirill Clark.

Paul Drinkwater/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Images

While Sean "Diddy" Combs faces sex trafficking and racketeering charges, an old video interview of the rapper resurfaced with him joking about locking women in at parties. 

In a 2002 interview, the music mogul appeared on "Late Night with Conan O’Brien " and explained the "ingredients" for a "killer party."

"Women, beautiful women, of course," Combs shared with O’Brien. "Beautiful men for the ladies, of course.

"There’s enough ladies to go around. You have to give the ladies what they need too. You have to take care of your women. You can’t force the situation."

He continued to say that "alcohols" is a requirement at the party, in addition to water. 

"A lot of ladies drink water at parties. So, if you don’t have what they need, they’re going to leave. Got to keep them there. You need locks on the doors. It’s a little kinky."

This is an excerpt from an article written by Fox News' Stephanie Giang-Paunon.

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Sean “Diddy” Combs’ homes in Los Angeles and Miami were raided by Homeland Security officials on March 25, 2024, in connection to a federal human trafficking investigation.

"Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New York executed law enforcement actions as part of an ongoing investigation, with assistance from HSI Los Angeles, HSI Miami, and our local law enforcement partners," Homeland Security Investigations said in a statement. "We will provide further information as it becomes available."

In September, Diddy was arrested and officially charged with racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, and transportation to engage in prostitution. He faces a minimum of 15 years behind bars or a maximum sentence of life in prison if found guilty.

In an unsealed indictment, United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York Damian Williams revealed a number of shocking allegations against the fallen "Bad Boy" entertainment tycoon. 

While at the helm of the organization, officials claimed Diddy and a number of un-named associates in the Combs Enterprise, used intimidation tactics to "lure female victims into Combs' orbit, often under the pretense of a romantic relationship."

Authorities seized "freak off supplies" along with three AR-15s with defaced serial numbers and ammunition, court docs stated. The feds took "cases and cases of the kinds of personal lubricant and baby oil that Combs' staff allegedly used to stock hotel rooms for the freak offs - more than 1,000 bottles altogether," Williams said at a press conference.