In a dramatic turn during Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal trial, jurors heard gripping testimony from former Danity Kane singer Dawn Richard, who described incidents of alleged violence and intimidation by the music mogul—claims legal experts say could strengthen the government’s racketeering case.
Testifying under oath, Richard recounted multiple instances in which she allegedly witnessed Combs physically assault his then-girlfriend, singer Cassie Ventura. According to Richard, Combs’ control over Ventura extended beyond the professional realm, with the hip-hop mogul allegedly declaring he “owned” Ventura and her career would succeed only on his terms.
Los Angeles litigator John J. Perlstein told Fox News Digital that Richard’s testimony could serve as critical corroboration of Ventura’s allegations and may reinforce charges under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). “Richard provided firsthand accounts of abuse and also claimed Combs threatened her into silence,” Perlstein said. “This supports the notion of witness intimidation and obstruction—elements central to the RICO allegations.”
Richard’s account included one particularly harrowing moment in which she claimed Combs became enraged over breakfast, allegedly attempting to strike Ventura with a skillet of eggs. Ventura dropped to the ground in a fetal position, anticipating the blow. “She was literally trying to hide her face,” Richard recalled in court.
Former federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani emphasized the weight of Richard’s testimony: “Her detailed recollection of physical violence—Combs allegedly kicking Ventura, dragging her by the hair—was one of the trial’s most graphic moments. She also alleged personal experiences of being groped and threatened, adding to the broader narrative of abuse.”
While defense attorneys have attempted to cast doubt on Ventura’s credibility, citing emails and messages as evidence of a consensual relationship, Rahmani said Richard’s testimony helps build a consistent pattern of behavior. “Independent witnesses are crucial. Richard’s statements help rebut the argument that the acts were voluntary,” he explained.
Richard further testified that following one of the alleged altercations, Combs dismissed his actions as “passion,” telling her it was just part of being in a relationship. She said he warned her not to speak out, ominously adding that “where he’s from, people go missing”—a statement she interpreted as a threat.
Despite those threats, Richard acknowledged that she later considered reuniting musically with Combs at the urging of another artist. Defense attorney Nicole Westmoreland pressed Richard on communications with Combs as recently as 2020 or 2021. Richard responded that she agreed to the reunion discussions reluctantly and only out of concern for her friend and fellow Dirty Money bandmate Kalenna Harper. “I didn’t want to work with him again,” Richard stated. “It wasn’t good.”
Another witness, Kerry Morgan, took the stand with her own troubling account. She alleged Combs assaulted her in 2018 at Ventura’s home, an event she said ended her friendship with the “Me & U” singer. Morgan claimed Combs choked her and struck her with a hanger, resulting in a concussion. She testified that Ventura later offered her $30,000 to sign a non-disclosure agreement, which she declined. “I draw my line at physical abuse,” Morgan told the court.
The federal indictment against Combs, unsealed last September, accuses the entertainment mogul of racketeering, sex trafficking, and other serious offenses. Prosecutors allege he operated a criminal enterprise through several of his companies—including Bad Boy Entertainment and Combs Global—employing threats, weapons, and various forms of abuse to exploit and control his victims.
Combs has denied all allegations. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years, with a maximum of life in prison.
