Listeners, the trial of Sean Combs—also known as Puffy, P Diddy, or Diddy—remains headline news as dramatic testimony and evidence continue to surface in federal court. On the eighth day of proceedings in New York, jurors heard from George Kaplan, Diddy's former assistant, who described in detail how hotel rooms were meticulously arranged for Combs, complete with candles, clothing, and large amounts of baby oil and lubricant. Kaplan testified that it was his job to clean up after Diddy’s encounters and to protect his employer’s public image. He even stated that his employment was sometimes threatened if he didn’t comply. Homeland Security agent Gerard Gannon outlined what was found after the raid of Combs’ Miami property: residue testing positive for cocaine and ketamine, MDMA pills, a meth fragment, and evidence of other prescription drugs. Among the most striking discoveries was a closet stocked with 25 bottles of baby oil and 31 bottles of lubricant. Gannon and other witnesses painted a picture of an environment that prosecutors claim was designed to enable coercive, drug-fueled parties.

The case is rooted in accusations of sex trafficking and racketeering, with prosecutors arguing that Combs built a criminal enterprise to serve his sexual desires while shielding his reputation. Kaplan’s testimony included descriptions of days-long parties, known as "freak offs," where women and drugs allegedly played a central part. Combs has pleaded not guilty to the charges, and his lawyers maintain that while he may have taken drugs and acted abusively in personal relationships, he did not commit the crimes alleged.

Casandra "Cassie" Ventura, Combs’ former partner, has previously testified that she felt treated as a "sex worker" throughout their lengthy, turbulent relationship, stating she was compelled to participate in these orchestrated parties. A forensic psychologist explained to the jury that financial dependency can trap victims in such situations, highlighting the challenges faced by those attempting to escape abuse.

While the trial exposes allegations against Combs, it is also worth noting his once-formidable influence as a business mogul. Despite legal trouble, Diddy’s net worth as of 2025 remains near $1 billion, reflecting a career that extended from music and television to fashion, beverages, and more. According to Radioguide, he achieved billionaire status in the early 2020s through business acumen and iconic status in pop culture. For now, the world watches to see how the high-profile trial of one of hip hop’s most recognizable figures will unfold next.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI