"Because when he was happy, I was safe”: Diddy’s ex-assistant explains why she praised him online

A former assistant known as “Mia” testified in June 2025 that she worked for Sean “Diddy” Combs from 2009 to 2017 and suffered sexual assault and physical abuse during that time. She explained that, in an unpredictable work environment, she often posted messages of admiration for Combs on social media, even though those posts were not genuine.

“Because when he was happy, I was safe,” she said.

Describing how praising him felt like the only way to avoid retaliation. Diddy has pleaded not guilty to charges including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transporting people for prostitution. Mia’s statement highlights how frightening and confusing her situation was, showing that she felt praising him was necessary to protect herself.

Also Read: I'm really into astronomy: Taylor Jenkins Reid on how writing 'Atmosphere' changed her

Diddy's ex-assistant describes how the work environment felt unpredictable and tense

Mia testified that Diddy could be warm and friendly one moment and angry or violent the next. She described feeling on edge every day, never sure which side she would see. If Combs was in a good mood, she did not have to worry about being hurt.

She posted things like “I love you” or congratulated him on his projects to keep him happy. Mia said these actions were not genuine but felt necessary to avoid the fear of punishment. This unpredictable atmosphere made Mia feel her safety depended entirely on Diddy's mood.

She explains what happened during cross-examination by the defense team

During cross-examination, Diddy's lawyers pointed to Mia’s online messages and videos to argue that she positively cared for him. They suggested that her social media posts did not line up with claims of abuse. In 2020, she had posted,

"I love you with all my heart, and I’m still here for you forever."

Mia replied that the public displays of affection were part of a strategy to keep Combs calm. She said that only after going to therapy and talking with prosecutors did she understand how harmed she was. The defense also raised questions about whether Mia had financial reasons to make these allegations. Mia insisted her story was truthful and that her earlier posts were a way to survive a difficult job. She also said,

"I didn’t understand what happened to me until recently as he was still being praised by everybody in the world. So how would I have known?"

Also Read: What did Connie Sgarbossa and her ex say in their joint statement about the abuse allegations? All to know

Other witnesses are expected to give more context as the trial moves forward

Mia is one of several people set to testify. Another key figure is singer Cassie Ventura, Diddy's former partner, who settled a lawsuit with him in 2023. Cassie has spoken publicly about her own experiences and is expected to share her account in court.

A former assistant, Phillip Pines, also made claims in a documentary about strict loyalty tests and intense pressure at events. These testimonies are meant to show a pattern of behavior rather than isolated incidents. The judge asked both sides to remain respectful after heated moments in court and reminded everyone that the focus should stay on the facts.

The trial’s outcome will depend on how the jury views conflicting evidence

The trial in Manhattan is scheduled to continue into July 2025. Jurors will hear more details from witnesses about what they saw and experienced. The defense is expected to keep arguing that Mia’s social media praise shows a consensual relationship, not one based on fear.

In the end, the jury will decide whether they believe Mia’s explanation that she praised Combs online only to stay safe. Their decision will affect Diddy's future, and it may also shape how people understand similar cases where power and fear are involved.

Also Read: "He is a true environmental hero": Robert Irwin speaks about working with Prince William

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback