Diddy trial updates: Sean Combs' alleged sexual abuse exposed in emotional testimony
Diddy trial updates: Sean Combs' alleged sexual abuse exposed in emotional testimony
This story contains graphic descriptions that some readers may find disturbing.
Sean "Diddy" Combs' alleged pattern of sexual and physical abuse is coming into focus as more of the hip-hop mogul's former associates speak out during his criminal trial.
After harrowing testimony from Combs' ex-assistant, a woman going by the pseudonym "Mia," prosecutors returned to court on May 30 to continue building their case against the Grammy-winning rapper in his sweeping federal sex-crimes case.
During her May 29 testimony, Mia was emotional, slow and considered in her responses. Her voice often cracked as she teared up while alleging Combs attacked her and his then-girlfriend Cassie Ventura Fine multiple times. "He's thrown things at me. He's thrown me against the wall. He's thrown me into a pool," she said.
Mia's testimony followed similar allegations from Deonte Nash, a friend and stylist of Ventura Fine, who claimed Combs tried to control all aspects of Cassie's life during their decadelong relationship.
Combs, 55, was arrested in September 2024 and charged with sex trafficking, racketeering and transportation to engage in prostitution. He has pleaded not guilty.
Diddy on trial newsletter: Step inside the courtroom as music mogul faces sex-crimes charges.
Why is Diddy on trial?
Combs is facing federal sex-crimes and trafficking charges in a sprawling lawsuit that has eroded his status as a power player and kingmaker in the entertainment industry.
He was arrested in September 2024 and later charged with racketeering, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution. The rapper has pleaded not guilty to all five counts against him.
What is racketeering?
Racketeering is the participation in an illegal scheme under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Statute, or RICO, as a way for the U.S. government to prosecute organizations that contribute to criminal activity.
Using RICO law, which is typically aimed at targeting multi-person criminal organizations, prosecutors allege that Combs coerced victims, some of whom they say were sex workers, through intimidation and narcotics to participate in "freak offs" — sometimes dayslong sex performances that federal prosecutors allege they have video of.
Where can I watch the Diddy trial?
The trial will not be televised, as cameras are typically not allowed in federal criminal trial proceedings.
USA TODAY will be reporting live from the courtroom. Sign up for our newsletter for more updates.
Contributing: USA TODAY staff
If you are a survivor of sexual assault, RAINN offers support through the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673) and Hotline.RAINN.org and en Español RAINN.org/es.
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text "START" to 88788.
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