The second week of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ high-profile federal trial wrapped up Thursday inside the Daniel Patrick Moynihan Courthouse in lower Manhattan, as a packed courtroom listened to a new round of explosive testimony. Federal prosecutors continued to build their case against the music and fashion mogul, alleging he engaged in a decades-long pattern of sex trafficking, racketeering, and manipulation that turned his entertainment empire into a criminal operation.
Combs, maintaining his innocence, pushed back through his defense team with calculated, rigorous cross-examinations. His attorneys worked to undermine witness credibility, challenge expert conclusions, and suggest ulterior motives behind the accusations—all while a jury of eight men and four women absorbed every moment. With five weeks of proceedings still expected, the stakes remain enormous. If convicted, Combs could face a life sentence.
Among the most striking testimony this week came from David James, a former assistant who described an incident that prosecutors claim illustrates Combs’ pattern of coercion through surveillance. James recounted a moment after a company party in which Combs reviewed footage of the night—something that, according to other witnesses, was common practice.
James told the jury that Combs called him into his office, played back video of the event, and asked if he had been high during the party. When James admitted he had taken ecstasy, Combs allegedly nodded and remarked, “Okay, I want to keep this footage in case I ever need it.” Prosecutors say this exchange echoes previous claims—including from singer Cassie Ventura—that Combs kept sexually explicit material to control and intimidate.
Ventura’s mother, Regina Ventura, also took the stand this week and detailed a separate confrontation from 2011. After Combs learned of Cassie’s relationship with rapper Kid Cudi, he allegedly demanded $20,000 from Ventura’s parents to “recoup” his investment in Cassie’s career. Regina told the jury she reluctantly paid the amount, fearing for her daughter’s safety. Oddly, the money was later returned without explanation. Notably, Combs’ defense team opted not to cross-examine her.
Also testifying was Sharay Dashawn Hayes, a sex worker known as “The Punisher,” who participated in what were referred to as “freak-offs”—sexual events allegedly orchestrated by Combs. Hayes testified candidly about performance issues he experienced during these encounters, attributing them to the uncomfortable presence and commanding tone of Combs, who was often nearby, directing the encounters. Hayes claimed his inability to perform led to him being cut off from further engagements with the mogul.
Despite the graphic nature of his testimony, Hayes offered a twist: he later turned his experience into a self-help book titled In Search of Freezer Meat, chronicling his journey to overcome erectile dysfunction through a medical implant.
The week’s proceedings also saw a surprise appearance from Scott Mescudi—better known as rapper Kid Cudi—who addressed a chilling incident from 2012 when his Porsche exploded outside his Hollywood Hills home. Mescudi testified that he never received follow-up from police, but defense attorney Brian Steel revealed during cross-examination that DNA found at the scene reportedly belonged to a woman.
Steel’s attempt to introduce the DNA evidence prompted immediate objections from prosecutors, who accused him of hearsay and lacking foundation. Judge Arun Subramanian sustained the objection but allowed limited questions, setting the courtroom abuzz with speculation over the mysterious DNA match—an element sure to fuel intrigue beyond the courtroom.
With more testimony ahead, the trial continues to unravel a complex web of accusations, counterclaims, and high-stakes legal maneuvering. The coming weeks will determine whether one of hip-hop’s most powerful figures walks free—or faces the full weight of federal prosecution.
