Latest news with #InnerCityPress
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Fact Check: Adam Sandler didn't testify against Sean 'Diddy' Combs, honestly
Claim: Actor Adam Sandler testified against Sean 'Diddy' Combs on or around May 30, 2025, during the rapper's sex-trafficking trial in New York City. Rating: In late May 2025, a claim (archived) circulated online that actor Adam Sandler testified against Sean "Diddy" Combs on or around May 30, 2025, during the rapper's sex-trafficking trial in New York City. One YouTube video, titled "1 MINUTE AGO: Adam Sandler Testifies In Court On Day 14 Of Diddy Trial," had more than 374,000 views at the time of this writing. The rumor also appeared on Facebook (archived), X (archived) and TikTok (archived) and Snopes readers searched our site to find out if it was true. However, the claim that Sandler testified against Combs in the music mogul's criminal trial was false. Court reports from entertainment and news outlets on May 30 — day 13 of the trial, when video narrations in the above posts said Sandler testified — made no mention of the actor. Sandler also did not feature in Getty Images photos or court sketches on this date. Day 14 of the trial, when some video titles and descriptions said the testimony took place, was on June 2, 2025, several days after the videos were published. A Google search also produced no evidence that Sandler testified at the trial. Snopes reached out to representatives for Sandler to ask if the actor had or would testify in the trial against Combs. We await their reply. The claim spread via numerous (archived) YouTube videos labeled "Altered or synthetic content." The videos also included disclaimers that they were for "entertainment and educational purposes only," both indicators that the content was fictional. One video (archived) that did not include the "altered or synthetic content" label (but did include the "entertainment and educational purposes only" disclaimer) falsely credited its claims to Inner City Press, an outlet that covers the Southern District Court of New York where Combs' trial was being held. This is not the first time we have debunked a claim falsely attributed to Inner City Press. We previously fact-checked its involvement in false reports that Usher had testified at Combs' trial. Combs faces multiple charges that include racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. Combs has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Snopes has also previously investigated whether Wendy Williams and Samuel L. Jackson testified at the rapper's ongoing trial. 7 Diddy Trial Photos & High Res Pictures - Getty Images. Accessed 2 June 2025. "Diddy Trial Day 13 Full Recap: Former Combs Employee Continues Testimony." Accessed 2 June 2025. "Diddy Trial Highlights From 13th Day of Witness Testimony." TMZ, 30 May 2025, Disclosing Use of Altered or Synthetic Content - Computer - YouTube Help. Accessed 2 June 2025. "Ex-Assistant Mia Testifies about Alleged Sexual Assault by Sean Combs." The Washington Post, 30 May 2025, Scannell, Lauren del Valle, Nicki Brown, Kara. "May 30, 2025 - Day 13 of Testimony in the Sean 'Diddy' Combs Trial." CNN, 30 May 2025, "Sketches from the Sean 'Diddy' Combs Trial." Reuters, 1 June 2025. "United States v. COMBS, 1:24-Cr-00542 - CourtListener, Accessed 2 June 2025. 'What Is Sean "Diddy" Combs Charged with and How Long Will His Trial Last?' BBC News, 10 Oct. 2024,
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Here's why Obama was briefly mentioned during Sean 'Diddy' Combs trial
A rumor that circulated online in May 2025 claimed that someone mentioned former U.S. President Barack Obama's name during rapper Sean "Diddy" Combs' New York trial. According to prominent news media outlets publishing live updates from the trial, Obama's name did briefly come up during testimony on the morning of May 20 — specifically with a witness telling prosecutors that Combs' personal security once possessed Obama-shaped ecstasy pills. However, users shared inaccurate reporting about the testimony, alleging the witness instead said a "drug dealer" for Combs met with former presidents, including Obama. Snopes contacted a representative for Obama to request comment about the trial and the inaccurate reporting, and will update this story if we receive any statements. On May 20, The New York Times reported that David James, a former personal assistant to Combs, told Assistant U.S. Attorney Christy Slavik the music mogul's security personnel would carry a Louis Vuitton bag at all times filled with pills and cash, including an ecstasy pill shaped like Obama's face. USA Today, The Washington Post and other credible news outlets also reported the detail about the Obama-shaped ecstasy pills. New York Post reporter Priscilla DeGregory, who was inside the Manhattan federal court, published a transcript (archived) of the exchange on the Post's live-update blog (archived): Sean "Diddy" Combs took drugs "every day" — including sometimes downing Obama-shaped ecstasy pills, his ex-personal assistant told jurors Tuesday. "There were various pills but one was in the form of a former president's face," Combs' one-time personal assistant David James said in Manhattan federal court of the types of ecstasy pills he saw his boss take. "Which former president?" prosecutor Christy Slavik asked. "President Obama," James responded. James was named by the prosecution's star witness, R&B singer Cassie Ventura, as the Bad Boy Records founder's "trusted assistant" who helped set up "freak-offs" — depraved, drug-fueled sex romps that form the backbone of the case against Combs. During James' testimony, a journalist for Inner City Press, also reporting from the court, published in a thread of posts (archived) on X that James had mentioned a "drug dealer" for Combs named "One Stop" (or "One-stop"). In the thread's next post, Inner City Press transcribed further testimony, possibly giving the appearance James said "One Stop" also met with former presidents, including Obama. Inner City Press has since deleted that latter post, but not before other users captured screenshots. Numerous users on Facebook (archived), X (archived) and YouTube (archived) shared the unfounded information with screenshots of Inner City Press' deleted post. Snopes located no further credible reports of any such testimony about James saying a drug dealer named "One Stop" met with other presidents, including Obama, nor did we find an archived link for Inner City Press' removed post. In a direct message on X, Snopes asked Inner City Press if they deleted the post because their reporter misheard and/or misstated the comment about the Obama-shaped ecstasy pills. In response, Inner City Press founder Matthew Russell Lee indicated the quick-moving nature of live testimony led to a reporting mistake. "The testimony is fast and furious in this trial: David James was being asked about all the people Combs met with, CEOs of beverage conglomerates, etc, and then the question quickly turned to pills (like today, pills with impression of Tesla on it)," Lee said, referencing testimony about Tesla-stamped pills. "In any event, took that tweet down." Lee added that modern court proceedings could benefit from offering video or audio-only feeds, saying in part, "Accurate but also fast reporting of court proceedings is important. It would be better if Federal courts allowed cameras and audio (some do have audio lines these days in civil cases, including some of the immigration / deportation habeas corpus proceedings). Inner City Press pushed for as much transparency as possible." Combs' trial does not feature any live audio or video. Combs faces charges including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution, all centered on so-called "freak-off" parties — alleged sexual marathons involving drug use and coercion. Combs pleaded not guilty; if convicted, he faces a minimum prison sentence of 15 years and a maximum of life in prison. Cohen, Luc, and Jonathan Stempel. "Sean 'Diddy' Combs Pleads Not Guilty to Sex Trafficking; Judge Denies Bail." Reuters, 18 Sept. 2024, "Ex-Assistant, Psychologist and Special Agent Testified in Sean Combs's Case." The Washington Post, 21 May 2025, Finn, Natalie. "Sean 'Diddy' Combs Trial: Usher, Michael B. Jordan and More Celebrities Who Have Been Mentioned in Court." E! Online, 20 May 2025, Jacobs, Shayna. "Witnesses Testify on Cassie Ventura, Freak-Offs and Combs's Star Island Mansion Raid." The Washington Post, 20 May 2025, Landrum Jr., Jonathan. "Diddy Faces Public Scrutiny over Alleged Sex Crimes as Questions Arise about Future of His Music." The Associated Press, 21 Sept. 2024, Reiss, Adam, and Marlene Lenthang. "Sean 'Diddy' Combs Trial Recap: Agent Testifies about Drugs, Guns and Sex Supplies Found in Miami Home." NBC News, 21 May 2025, Ryan, Patrick, et al. "Diddy Trial Recap: Cassie's Mom Said She Wired Diddy $20K, Was Sick over Alleged Threats." USA TODAY, Accessed 21 May 2025. Schnitzer, Kyle, Jack Morphet, Priscilla DeGregory, and Matt Troutman. "Diddy Took Drugs 'every Day' Including Obama-Shaped Ecstasy Pills, Ex-Assistant Says." New York Post, 20 May 2025, Schnitzer, Kyle, Jack Morphet, Priscilla DeGregory, and Kaydi Pelletier. "Diddy Trial: Live Updates from May 20." New York Post, 20 May 2025, Sisario, Ben, and Julia Jacobs. "Cassie's Mother Testifies at Sean Combs's Trial About Bruises and a Payment." The New York Times, 20 May 2025, ---. "Drugs, Sex, Baby Oil: The 'Freak-Offs' at the Core of Sean Combs's Troubles." The New York Times, 22 Sept. 2024,
Time of India
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Viral YouTube video makes false claims about Sheila E's ‘testimony' in Diddy Trial
A YouTube video recently claimed that singer and writer Sheila E has allegedly testified in Sean Diddy Combs federal trial. The video was shared by YouTube channel WhatIsMyStarWorth on May 19. '1 MINUTE AGO: Sheila E. Reveals What Prince Told Her About Diddy Before His Death...' reads the video headline. The description of the video goes on to state that 'Sheila E has come forward with what Prince allegedly confided in her before his death—and it involves none other than Sean 'Diddy' Combs.' The video alleges to 'break down Sheila E's statement. The YouTube video has garnered over 650,000 views so far. Take a look at the video here: 1 MINUTE AGO: Sheila E. Reveals What Prince Told Her About Diddy Before His Death... What the description of YouTube video alleging Sheila E testimony in Sean Diddy Combs case says The description reads: by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Viral Video: मृत्यू कसाही येऊ शकतो! सीसीटीव्हीत कैद झाली काळीज पिळवटणारी घटना Latest News Read More Undo 'In a shocking revelation that's lighting up headlines, legendary musician Sheila E has come forward with what Prince allegedly confided in her before his death—and it involves none other than Sean 'Diddy' Combs. According to Sheila E, Prince shared a chilling warning about Diddy that is now resurfacing amidst the explosive trial and growing controversy surrounding the hip-hop mogul. In this video, we break down Sheila E's emotional statement, what Prince allegedly saw happening in the industry, and why his words are now being seen in a very different light. As past secrets begin to surface, the connection between music's biggest names is taking on a darker, more disturbing meaning.' Did Sheila E testify in Sean Diddy Combs case: The Truth While the video alleges that singer Sheila E., known for her work with Prince, testified on the seventh day of the trial in a 'shocking twist', it does not provide any credible source or evidence to support this claim. It also wrongly suggests that Diddy was involved in the death of singer Prince, who died on April 21, 2016. Authorities have confirmed that Prince's death was caused by an accidental fentanyl overdose, and no foul play was reported. Another false statement in the video is that the investigative journalism group Inner City Press, which has been covering Diddy's trial, reported on Sheila E.'s alleged testimony. Inner City Press has not reported any such information. YouTube video alleging Sheila E testimony comes with a disclaimer The YouTube channel that posted the video, WhatIsMyStarWorth, also includes a disclaimer in its profile that casts further doubt on the accuracy of its content. The disclaimer reads: "This content is fictional and for entertainment purposes only. No official reports confirm these statements or events."
See - Sada Elbalad
19-04-2025
- Entertainment
- See - Sada Elbalad
Sean "Diddy" Combs Loses Bid to Delay Trial; Jury Selection To Begin May 5
Yara Sameh A Manhattan federal judge on Friday denied a bid by disgraced mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs to delay his sex trafficking and racketeering trial by two months, ruling that the request was made too close to his trial date. The rapper's lawyers asked for the delay on Wednesday, arguing they didn't have enough time to prepare for trial after prosecutors added new charges earlier this month. Per Reuters , Judge Arun Subramanian denied that motion at a court hearing on Friday. Endorsing an argument made by the prosecutors, Subramanian said that the new indictment largely overlapped with earlier charging papers. According to CNN , the judge told Combs' lawyers that it was 'unclear why there isn't sufficient time to prepare.' Friday's ruling means that jury selection will begin on May 5 and testimony will begin on May 12. Combs was indicted in September, charged with running a sprawling criminal operation that aimed to 'fulfill his sexual desires' by subjecting numerous women to abuse. The case centers on elaborate 'freak off' parties in which Combs and others would allegedly ply victims with drugs and then coerce them into having sexual intercourse, as well as on alleged acts of violence to keep victims silent. A trial has long been set to start in May. If convicted on all of the charges, which include sex trafficking and racketeering, Combs faces a potential life prison sentence. In a letter to the judge filed Wednesday, the singer's lawyers claimed the feds were dragging their feet on turning over crucial evidence, and that the extra two months would give them 'the necessary time to prepare his defense' for a new superseding indictment filed April 3. The request — far longer than the two-week delay Diddy's lawyers had hinted they might seek — was opposed by prosecutors, who said the new charges were not sufficiently different to require any delay at all and that Combs was not entitled to the evidence he claimed he was owed. In addition to denying the delay, Subramanian made another important ruling Friday. According to Matthew Russell Lee of Inner City Press, the judge granted a request from prosecutors to allow three alleged victims to testify under Jane Doe pseudonyms. Combs' lawyers had called the move 'a blatant violation of Mr. Combs's Sixth Amendment rights to confront witnesses,' but prosecutors said it was necessary to protect them from harassment and embarrassment. The judge seemingly left at least one big pretrial issue unresolved: a motion filed by Combs on Thursday seeking to ban prosecutors from showing jurors the infamous 2016 surveillance video of him assaulting his former partner Cassie Ventura. He alleged the clips have been edited and will 'confuse and mislead the jury'; prosecutors say it's a 'damning piece of evidence' that must be admitted. read more New Tourism Route To Launch in Old Cairo Ahmed El Sakka-Led Play 'Sayidati Al Jamila' to Be Staged in KSA on Dec. 6 Mandy Moore Joins Season 2 of "Dr. Death" Anthology Series Don't Miss These Movies at 44th Cairo Int'l Film Festival Today Amr Diab to Headline KSA's MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2022 Festival Arts & Culture Mai Omar Stuns in Latest Instagram Photos Arts & Culture "The Flash" to End with Season 9 Arts & Culture Ministry of Culture Organizes four day Children's Film Festival Arts & Culture Canadian PM wishes Muslims Eid-al-Adha News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia Lifestyle Pistachio and Raspberry Cheesecake Domes Recipe News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Videos & Features Bouchra Dahlab Crowned Miss Arab World 2025 .. Reem Ganzoury Wins Miss Arab Africa Title (VIDEO) Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Arts & Culture Arwa Gouda Gets Married (Photos)
Yahoo
18-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Sean Combs Loses Bid to Delay Racketeering and Sex Trafficking Trial
A federal judge has denied Sean Combs' request for a two-month delay of his upcoming criminal trial on charges of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. At a Friday morning hearing in Manhattan, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian said the trial will proceed as planned on May 5, according to Inner City Press. Combs, 55, asked for the delay earlier this month, saying he needed more time to prepare after prosecutors filed a third superseding indictment with a new sex trafficking count for Victim 2. Prosecutors opposed the delay, arguing in court filings that the new charge was hardly 'substantially new conduct,' considering prosecutors quoted from Victim 2's messages to Combs back during his initial bail arguments last Fall. They said the messages implicated Combs in her alleged trafficking. More from Rolling Stone Menendez Brothers' Lawyer Wants DA 'Thrown Off' Case, Resentencing Hearing Delayed Drake Claims NFL Censoring 'Not Like Us' During Super Bowl Backs His Defamation Claim Sean Combs Adds Young Thug's Lawyer to Trial Team 'The government has consistently described Victim-2 as a victim of sex trafficking,' prosecutors argued in a letter to the court on Wednesday. They said the first superseding indictment, returned by the grand jury on January 30, 2025, also 'explicitly alleged' sex trafficking of Victim-2 as racketeering activity. At least three victims in the case also opposed a trial delay, prosecutors said. 'These victims have a statutory right under the Crime Victims' Rights Act to proceedings free from reasonable delay and to be treated with fairness and with respect,' prosecutors wrote. 'The defendant's adjournment request violates these rights.' Combs was arrested last September and immediately pleaded not guilty to allegations he trafficked multiple women under a 'criminal enterprise' that used violence, threats, and manipulation to fulfill his 'sexual gratification.' The Bad Boy Records founder has been in custody ever since and repeatedly denied bail. The initial indictment largely mirrored the bombshell rape and trafficking lawsuit filed by Combs' ex-girlfriend Casandra 'Cassie' Ventura in November 2023. Prosecutors didn't identify Ventura by name, but her lawyers attended his first court appearance, and she's widely known to be Victim 1. Prosecutors recently said Victim 1 was willing to proceed with her full name at trial. Victim 2 asked to proceed anonymously, prosecutors said. According to court filings, Combs reached out to the woman shortly after Ventura filed her lawsuit. The woman had contacted him to say reading Ventura's complaint was like 'reading her own sexual trauma,' according to prosecutors. 'It makes me sick how three solid pages, word for word, is exactly my experiences and my anguish,' the woman allegedly texted Combs. In another message to an unidentified person, the woman purportedly said Combs 'threatened me about my sex tapes that he has of me on two phones. He said he would expose me. Mind you, these [are] sex tapes where I am heavily drugged and doing things he asked of me for the past three years.' Earlier this week, Combs added Young Thug's high-powered defense lawyer, Brian Steel, to his trial team. In denying Combs' request to delay his trial, Judge Subramanian reportedly cited the fact that Combs now has four law firms representing him, according to Inner City Press. Steel represented Young Thug, born Jeffery Williams, during the rapper's nearly two-year trial related to his YSL gang and racketeering case in Atlanta. Steel famously took a contempt charge from the original judge on that trial and was subjected to a dramatic, on-camera arrest when he refused to disclose how he'd heard about a controversial conversation between the judge, prosecutors, and a key witness. The contempt charge was ultimately dropped, and that original judge was removed from the case. Best of Rolling Stone The 50 Greatest Eminem Songs All 274 of Taylor Swift's Songs, Ranked The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time
