The federal trial against Diddy has entered its sixth week. Brendan Paul, who served as Combs' assistant from late 2022 to March 2024, took the stand on June 20 under an immunity deal. His account provided details about his job duties, work environment, and direct involvement in obtaining controlled substances at Combs' behest.
Brendan Paul, a former Syracuse University basketball player, was arrested on drug charges in March 2024 at the Opa-locka Executive Airport near Miami. His arrest happened on the same day federal authorities raided Combs' properties in Los Angeles and Miami Beach. The court dropped the charges against Paul after he finished a diversion program. His agreement to testify without risking self-incrimination has made him a crucial witness in the ongoing case.
Brendan Paul describes drug procurement and high-pressure work culture under Diddy
Brendan Paul said his main job as an assistant was to handle Combs' meals and fitness plans. But he claimed his work soon grew to include more tasks, like getting drugs. He testified that he purchased large quantities of substances, including marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy, and ketamine for Combs over more than a year. Paul said these requests came directly from Combs and were part of the routine demands placed on the assistant team.
Paul compared the workplace to a strictly military operation, calling it demanding. He shared how Combs often called his assistants “SEAL Team 6” and expected them to always be on call, even sacrificing rest and personal time. Paul mentioned that some days he stayed awake for three days straight, taking brief naps and using stimulants like Adderall and sometimes cocaine to keep himself going.
Paul talked about more than just handling drugs. He explained how he put together “hotel nights” for Combs, which were private gatherings requiring things like liquor, candles, condoms, lubricant, special lighting, and a designer pouch filled with drugs. These events stopped after Combs’ ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, filed a civil lawsuit near the end of 2023.
Brendan Paul also shared a moment when Combs yelled at him for forgetting the drug-filled fanny pack. After that clash, Combs’ then-chief of staff told Paul to keep a low profile for a while. Later on, Combs told him to act normal when they saw each other, as the issue had already blown over.
During questioning by defense lawyer Brian Steel, Paul rejected claims about being a "drug mule." He said he purchased drugs as an assistant and not as someone involved in trafficking operations.
Sean Combs, charged with racketeering, sex trafficking, and moving people to engage in prostitution, has said he is not guilty. Authorities are holding him at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. Prosecutors plan to end their case next week, and closing arguments should come after that.