The federal sex trafficking trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs completed its fifth week, featuring emotional testimony from his former partner, identified in court only as “Jane,” and an unexpected courthouse visit by rapper Kanye “Ye” West.
Combs, 55, faces life imprisonment if found guilty of charges including sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and transporting individuals for prostitution. Prosecutors allege that for years, Combs orchestrated and concealed disturbing sexual gatherings known as “freak-offs,” exploiting his wealth and influence alongside a loyal inner circle dedicated to covering up his misconduct.
“Jane” Recounts a Disturbing Relationship
The proceedings resumed with more testimony from Jane, who carefully guards her anonymity. She revealed that her relationship with Combs spanned from 2021 to late 2024, but her last planned encounter with him was disrupted by his arrest in September.
Jane recounted how their relationship swiftly descended from initial affection into abuse, claiming she was beaten, psychologically manipulated, and coerced into participating in multi-day drug-fueled sex parties involving escorts—events Combs portrayed as acts of “love.”
Cassie Ventura’s Lawsuit Sparks Realization
Jane told jurors that singer Cassie Ventura’s 2023 lawsuit against Combs—which accused him of rape, sex trafficking, and prolonged abuse—made her recognize the toxic and abusive nature of her own involvement with him. After reading the suit, she texted Combs saying it felt like reading about her own trauma.
A recorded phone call played in court captured Jane tearfully confronting Combs, detailing striking similarities between her experiences and Ventura’s accusations. By late 2023, Jane admitted she was suicidal and attempted to distance herself, but said Combs retaliated with threats of releasing private videos, echoing Ventura’s previous blackmail claims.
Physical Abuse and Sexual Coercion Allegations
Jane also described a violent attack in June 2024 after accusing Combs of pursuing relationships with women far younger than himself. She claimed the confrontation escalated into hours of physical assault, including choking and being struck in the face. Following the beating, she alleged Combs forced her into performing sex acts with a male escort, pressuring her with drugs and taunting whether his behavior qualified as coercion.
Claims About Combs’ Sexual Preferences
Jane suggested that Combs struggled with his sexuality, allegedly preferring to orchestrate and watch encounters involving his female partners and male escorts rather than directly engage himself. She described this behavior as fitting the profile of a “cuck,” a term for someone who derives satisfaction from watching their partner with another man, sometimes due to suppressed bisexual desires.
Defense Challenges Jane’s Credibility
Under cross-examination, Combs’ defense team questioned Jane’s voluntary participation in the so-called freak-offs, suggesting she willingly engaged due to her love for Combs and the lavish lifestyle he provided—including financial support, business investments, and expensive gifts. They implied she may have consented in pursuit of personal gain, not solely under coercion.
Text Messages Reveal Continued Financial Control
Prosecutors presented text messages in which Combs instructed his staff to ensure Jane’s rent was paid, underscoring his ongoing financial control over her life. These messages were sent just after settling Ventura’s lawsuit, hinting at a broader pattern of manipulation and dependency.
Former Assistant Details ‘King Nights’
Jonathan Perez, Combs’ former assistant, described preparing for “king nights,” private hotel rendezvous where Combs indulged in drugs—including Xanax, cocaine, and MDMA—alcohol, and sex paraphernalia. Perez said Jane appeared willing during these events and never showed signs of distress. He denied ever seeing Combs physically assault her or others.
Evidence from Homeland Security Raid
Jurors were shown photos of items seized during a March 2024 raid on Combs’ properties, including drugs like ketamine and MDMA, hundreds of bottles of lubricant and baby oil, as well as multiple firearms and armor-piercing ammunition. Agents also recovered thousands of rounds of ammunition, raising further concerns about the environment surrounding the alleged crimes.
Kanye West’s Courthouse Appearance
Rapper Kanye “Ye” West made a brief, surprise appearance at the courthouse to support Combs. Barred from the main courtroom, he watched from an overflow room alongside Combs’ son. Ye, who has faced his own legal troubles, left after less than an hour and declined to speak with reporters.
Juror Controversy
Prosecutors requested the removal of a juror due to inconsistent statements about his residency—an issue that could disqualify him from serving. Although the juror claimed to still reside in New York despite recently moving to New Jersey, the judge has not yet ruled on his replacement, assuring that jury diversity would be maintained.
Closing Arguments Approaching
Federal prosecutors signaled they are nearing the end of their case, possibly wrapping up by mid-next week. Combs maintains his innocence, admitting to past violence in relationships but denying any coercion or sexual misconduct as charged. — Yahoo News
Image—Jane Rosenberg/Reuters
