Diddy Sex Trafficking Trial Features Assault Videos, Witnesses Testify in Los Angeles

The federal sex trafficking trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs has begun in Manhattan, focusing on allegations that Combs engaged in drug-fueled and abusive behavior involving women, including his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura. Early testimony from witnesses such as former hotel security officer Israel Florez, who encountered Combs during a violent assault on Ventura captured on surveillance video, revealed attempts by Combs to bribe him to stay silent. Another witness, male escort Daniel Phillip, described being paid to have sex with Ventura in Combs’ presence and witnessing violent episodes. Ventura, a key witness expected to testify soon, alleges years of abuse, including rape and beatings, which she first outlined in a 2023 lawsuit that triggered the federal investigation. Combs faces charges including sex trafficking, transportation to engage in prostitution, and racketeering conspiracy, which he denies, with his defense arguing the relationship was consensual despite Combs’ admitted violent behavior. Prosecutors have depicted Combs’ parties as drug- and sex-fueled events involving coercion and abuse, while the defense challenges the credibility and interpretation of evidence presented.