Sean "Diddy" Combs' sex trafficking trial resumed in New York City today after a Memorial Day weekend break. The trial, which began earlier this month, entered its third week of testimony with Combs facing serious charges including sex trafficking by force, transportation to engage in prostitution, and racketeering conspiracy.
Last week, rapper Kid Cudi took the stand on Thursday, testifying about alleged incidents involving Combs, including one where he claimed his car was set on fire during his relationship with Cassie Ventura. Kid Cudi described Combs as looking "like a Marvel supervillain" during a subsequent meeting. Following his testimony, a Homeland Security Investigations agent provided evidence about computer data extractions related to the case.
Combs, who has pleaded not guilty to all charges, is accused of being the ringleader of an enterprise that allegedly "abused, threatened and coerced women" into drug-fueled sexual encounters he called "freak offs." His defense team maintains that all sexual activities were consensual and that while his relationships sometimes involved domestic violence, he wasn't engaged in trafficking.
The hip-hop mogul, once worth an estimated $1 billion, has seen his business empire significantly impacted by these legal troubles. Prior to his arrest, Combs had built a diverse portfolio including the Sean Jean clothing line, a partnership with Diageo for Ciroc vodka and DeLeón tequila (which ended in January 2024), Bad Boy Entertainment record label, and Revolt media company.
Court observers have noted Combs' behavior during proceedings, including smiling, making heart-hand gestures to family members, hugging his attorneys, and maintaining a stone-faced expression during certain testimony. His former girlfriend Cassie Ventura previously testified, sharing graphic details about the alleged "freak offs."
As this high-profile trial continues, it represents a dramatic fall for one of hip-hop's most successful entrepreneurs. The court is expected to hear from additional witnesses this week as prosecutors build their case against the music industry veteran who is currently detained while his trial proceeds.