Cassie Ventura delivered powerful testimony this week in the criminal trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, firmly rejecting claims that her allegations were financially motivated. The singer and model, who once had a long-term relationship with Combs, declared in court that she would return the $20 million settlement she previously received if it meant erasing the years of alleged abuse she endured.
In an emotional appearance on the witness stand, Ventura recounted harrowing experiences involving drug-fueled sex parties and violent episodes that left lasting physical and emotional trauma. Combs, 55, is facing serious federal charges, including racketeering, sex trafficking, and transportation for the purpose of prostitution—crimes that carry the potential for life imprisonment if convicted.
Under cross-examination, Combs’ defense team attempted to portray Ventura’s civil lawsuit as financially motivated, citing text messages and her return to living with her parents as evidence of desperation. Ventura responded unequivocally: “I would give it all back if it meant I never had to go through that.”
One of the most damning pieces of evidence presented was CCTV footage from 2016, allegedly showing Combs assaulting Ventura in a hotel hallway. Prosecutors described the video as a pivotal moment in the trial, further substantiating Ventura’s claims.
Additional testimony came from singer Dawn Richard, a former member of Danity Kane, who told the court she witnessed Combs beating Ventura at his Los Angeles mansion in 2009. Richard recalled Combs threatening her afterward, saying, “People go missing” if they talk.
A Homeland Security special agent also testified, revealing that authorities recovered drugs, large sums of cash, and baby oil from Combs’ New York hotel suite during his arrest—items the prosecution alleges were used in the context of his alleged sex trafficking network.
Ventura is also expected to receive a separate $10 million settlement from InterContinental Hotels over the 2016 incident involving Combs, though her legal team emphasized that her motivation remains rooted in justice, not financial gain.
The trial is set to continue next week, with prosecutors expected to call additional witnesses as they build their case against one of the entertainment industry’s most powerful—and now most controversial—figures.