Cassandra “Cassie” Ventura is set to testify against her ex-partner Sean Combs, also known as Diddy, in his upcoming trial on sex trafficking and racketeering charges. According to a motion filed by prosecutors, Ventura will be testifying under her own name rather than anonymously. The three other victims who were initially asked to testify anonymously have requested that their identities not be revealed to the press or public.
Combs, 55, is facing charges related to sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation for prostitution. He has pleaded not guilty and is currently awaiting trial at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center. The new charges against Combs are related to a second victim, as alleged in an indictment made public by federal prosecutors on April 4.
Prosecutors claim that Combs and his associates would lure victims into relationships before using force, threats, or coercion to get them involved in “freak off” performances, which the musicians allegedly coerced others to participate in. Ventura first came to attention in May 2024 when a surveillance video surfaced showing her being physically assaulted by Combs at a hotel in Los Angeles.
Combs’ defense team has disputed this footage, claiming that it was altered and doctored by CNN, which initially released the video. However, Ventura’s attorney has stated that she is confident the original footage will be admitted into evidence and that Combs will be held accountable for his actions.
The trial is scheduled to begin on May 5, and if convicted, Combs faces severe penalties related to sex trafficking and racketeering charges.
Source: https://people.com/cassie-is-prepared-to-testify-against-diddy-using-her-name-in-sex-trafficking-trial-11709896