Charles Esther
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sex-trafficking trial in Manhattan has revealed troubling allegations of control and abuse toward his former girlfriend, singer Cassie Ventura.
Cassie Ventura’s Mixtape and Career Restrictions
In 2013, Cassie Ventura released the critically acclaimed mixtape RockaByeBaby, produced by Combs’ label, Bad Boy Records.
The mixtape featured top artists like Lil Wayne, Meek Mill, Fabolous, Pusha T, and Wiz Khalifa.
Combs executive produced the project and initially released it online for free download.
Stylist and producer Deonte Nash testified that Combs promised to release the mixtape to paid streaming services, which would generate royalties for Ventura.
Despite the mixtape’s success as the top mixtape of that year, Combs never followed through on that promise.
As a result, Ventura and those involved in the mixtape received no payment or royalties.
Allegations of Financial and Emotional Control
Prosecutors presented testimony describing how Combs kept Ventura financially dependent on him by paying for her house, car, and expenses.
He allegedly threatened to withdraw financial support if she disobeyed or tried to leave.
Ventura was reportedly subjected to humiliating treatment, including being called derogatory names by Combs.
Stylist Nash recounted Combs frequently using terms like “whore,” “slut,” and “bitch” toward Ventura.
Abuse and “Freak Offs”
The trial also heard disturbing claims about Combs’ control involving sexual abuse.
“Freak offs” were described as days-long sexual performances involving drugs and hired male escorts, which Combs filmed for his own gratification.
Combs maintains these encounters were consensual, but Ventura testified that she did not want to participate.
Nash testified about violent incidents, including Combs choking him and physically abusing Ventura during arguments.
One incident involved Ventura hitting her head on a bedpost and bleeding heavily after a confrontation.
Limited Release of Ventura’s Music
Despite being signed to a 10-album deal with Combs in 2006, Ventura only had one album officially released, with her later work largely unreleased.
Nash testified that Ventura recorded hundreds of songs, but only about 10% were released.
Ventura confirmed she was only paid for her 2006 self-titled debut album.
Support from Stylist Deonte Nash
Nash has remained in contact with Ventura and supported her during her testimony.
He advised her on her wardrobe for court and recently congratulated her on the birth of her third child.
Nash acknowledged he was subpoenaed to testify and admitted to smoking marijuana during a pretrial interview.
Despite the seriousness of the case, Nash showed moments of lightness, joking during his testimony about a prosecutor’s photo of him.
Trial Continues with Additional Witnesses
Nash’s testimony is expected to conclude with further cross-examination by Combs’ lawyer.
Another accuser, identified as “Mia,” is scheduled to testify about her experiences, describing the worst abuse she suffered while working for Combs.
The trial is ongoing as prosecutors continue to present evidence and witness accounts against Sean “Diddy” Combs.
