Sean "Diddy" Combs is currently facing a federal trial in Manhattan for multiple felony charges. One of the most serious claims involves his former girlfriend, Cassie Ventura. Recently, a key piece of evidence, a hotel surveillance video, was shown in court. The footage shows what appears to be a violent attack on Ventura by Combs in 2016.
The trial involves charges of s*x trafficking, racketeering, and transporting individuals for illegal s*xual activity. Cassie Ventura, who dated Combs for about ten years, has testified against him. She claims he abused her both physically and emotionally. The surveillance video is considered a major development in the trial.
Combs has denied all allegations. His legal team says the relationship was consensual. The court will hear more witnesses in the coming weeks. Ventura’s story, and the newly released footage are expected to be central to the case.
What does the surveillance footage show?

As reported by Reuters on May 14, 2025, the video shown in court comes from a hotel hallway in Los Angeles in 2016. In the footage, Combs is seen wearing only a towel. In the clip, Cassie Ventura walks toward an elevator with a bag. Combs runs after her, throws her to the ground, and hits her several times. He also kicks her while she is on the floor.
The video has no sound. However, Cassie Ventura testified that she remained on the ground because she thought it was safer than trying to run. She said the attack happened after what she called a "Freak Off", a term she used for parties involving drugs and forced s*xual acts. She claimed these were arranged by Combs, and left her with a black eye.
According to The Telegraph on May 14, 2025, the footage has become a central piece of evidence. Prosecutors say it supports Ventura’s claims of abuse. The defense says the video is being misunderstood and lacks context.
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What did Cassie Ventura say in court?

As reported by Newsweek on May 14, 2025, Ventura spoke in detail about her time with Combs. She said the relationship was filled with fear and control. She described being forced to take part in "Freak Offs" and said she feared being hurt if she refused. According to her, Combs would use drugs, threats, and blackmail to control her.
Ventura also said that Combs watched her closely. He told her how to look, what to wear, and who she could speak with. She said the pressure from Combs left her with long-term emotional and physical damage. Her testimony lasted several hours and covered different parts of their ten-year relationship.
As reported by CNN on May 14, 2025, Ventura is the main witness in the trial. Prosecutors hope her testimony, along with the video, will prove the charges against Combs. Cassie Ventura said she stayed silent for years because she was scared and did not think anyone would believe her.
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What charges does Diddy face and what happens next?

According to The New York Times on May 14, 2025, Combs faces several federal charges. These include s*x trafficking, transportation for illegal s*xual activity, and racketeering. If found guilty, he could face at least 15 years in prison. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The trial is taking place in a federal court in Manhattan. It is expected to continue for several more weeks. Prosecutors plan to call other witnesses. These may include people who were close to Cassie Ventura and Combs during their relationship. The court may also review text messages, emails, and other forms of evidence.
As reported by NBC News on May 14, 2025, Combs’ legal team says the relationship was consensual. They claim Cassie Ventura is misrepresenting what happened. The defense has also questioned her reasons for coming forward now. Still, the combination of Ventura’s testimony and the video makes the prosecution’s case stronger.
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The surveillance video and Ventura’s courtroom statements have added serious weight to the charges against Sean "Diddy" Combs. While the trial is ongoing, the evidence shown so far paints a troubling picture. The court will continue to examine all sides in the coming weeks.
The case is being closely followed across the country. Many are waiting to see what other evidence will come to light.