Sean 'Diddy' Combs Lawyers Cite Accuser's Texts in Sex Trafficking Trial

Sean 'Diddy' Combs is currently on trial in Manhattan facing federal charges including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation to engage in prostitution. Prosecutors presented accusations that Combs forced two former girlfriends, including rhythm and blues singer Casandra 'Cassie' Ventura, into sexual performances with male sex workers, while also subjecting them to physical abuse and threats. Ventura testified that Combs raped her in 2018 after their decade-long relationship ended and claimed she was silenced with a $20 million settlement in 2023. In response, Combs' defense highlighted text message exchanges where Ventura expressed love and suggested consensual participation in the sexual activities known as 'Freak Offs,' aiming to challenge the prosecution's narrative. The defense also acknowledged Combs' occasional violence but argued the sexual performances were consensual, and Combs has pleaded not guilty and opted not to testify. After more than six weeks of testimony, prosecutors rested their case, and the trial is moving toward final arguments and jury deliberation.