Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sat motionless as federal prosecutors unveiled a catalogue of graphic and disturbing allegations against him at the opening of his trial – calling them “just the tip of the iceberg”. The music industry has been closely watching this high-profile case as it unfolds, with potential implications for the entertainment world at large.
The 55-year-old music mogul is accused of running a sex trafficking ring and abusing multiple women over two decades, including his ex-girlfriend Casandra Ventura, and his trial began on Monday (12.05,25) at the US District Court in Manhattan, where Combs is facing five federal criminal charges, including racketeering, sex trafficking and prostitution. The courtroom was filled to capacity with media, legal observers, and family members of those involved.
A jury — composed of eight men and four women — was seated shortly before opening statements. The jury selection process was completed after thorough questioning of potential jurors by both prosecution and defense teams.
The case centers around claims Combs operated his Bad Boy Records firm as a “criminal enterprise” while using employees and close associates to conceal violent and exploitative behavior. Legal experts note this prosecutorial approach is often used in cases involving alleged organized criminal activity.
Prosecutor Emily Johnson described Combs as a “larger-than-life celebrity” who allegedly committed crimes with the help of his “inner circle”. Her opening statement outlined the government’s case against the music mogul.
She told the court Combs allegedly reacted violently upon learning that Casandra Ventura, 37, had started seeing someone new. Ventura, known professionally as Cassie, had previously filed a civil lawsuit against Combs that was settled out of court.
“So he threatened her and said if she defies her again he will release video of her having sex with male escorts,” Ms Johnson said. This statement appeared to draw visible reactions from several members of the jury.
She added the videos were “souvenirs of the most humiliating nights of her life”. The prosecution presented a timeline of events to support their allegations of manipulation and control.
The prosecution also claimed Combs used the videos — which he allegedly referred to as being from “freak-offs”, or drug-fuelled sex parties — to control Cassie and other women. These allegations form a central part of the government’s case against the music mogul.
“This is just the tip of the iceberg in 20 years of Combs using his inner circle to cover up crime after crime,” Johnson added. This statement suggests prosecutors may introduce additional evidence throughout the trial proceedings.
Another alleged victim in the case – a woman identified only as Jane Doe – was introduced during opening statements. The court has implemented security measures to protect the identities of certain witnesses in the case.
Ms Johnson told the court the single mother met Combs in 2020 and was soon under his control. The prosecution alleges a pattern of behavior that extended to multiple victims over many years.
“She wanted the escorts to wear condoms but he would not let them, then he would make her take drugs, she broke down and took ecstasy,” Johnson said. Expert witnesses are expected to testify about coercion tactics later in the trial.
She added: “One time she vomited, he told her to hurry up and get back in the room where an escort was waiting.” The graphic descriptions prompted many jurors to take extensive notes during the proceedings.
Prosecutors also said Mia, a former personal assistant to Combs, will testify during the trial. Her testimony is anticipated to provide insight into the daily operations within Combs’ organization.
“She is just beginning to grapple with the times he forced himself on her sexually — she wanted to keep the secret to her grave,” Ms Johnson said. Victim advocacy groups have highlighted the challenges faced by those coming forward in high-profile cases.
Combs arrived at court in a beige sweater and khaki trousers and acknowledged his family — including his 84-year-old mother Janice Combs and six of his children — as they filled the second row of the courtroom gallery. Throughout the proceedings, his family has maintained a visible presence of support.
He was seen blowing a kiss to them before proceedings began. Court officers maintained strict decorum as the emotional opening day unfolded.
Originally charged with three offences, Combs now faces two additional counts added later by prosecutors. The expanded charges followed additional evidence presented to the grand jury.
He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. The trial is expected to continue for several weeks with numerous witnesses scheduled to testify.
His legal team maintains the relationships were consensual and argue there was “nothing illegal” about his “swinger lifestyle”. Defense attorneys are preparing to present their opening statements, outlining their strategy to counter the government’s allegations.
