May 12, 2025 — The courtroom was electric as Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex-trafficking trial kicked off in Manhattan. Prosecutors wasted no time, presenting a 2016 hotel surveillance video showing Combs assaulting his then-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura. The footage depicted Combs throwing Ventura to the ground and kicking her as she attempted to enter an elevator. Reuters
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson detailed Combs’ alleged orchestration of “Freak Offs”—drug-fueled sex parties where women were coerced into degrading acts, all recorded for blackmail purposes. Johnson claimed these events were part of a broader pattern of abuse and control. BBC
Daniel Phillip, a male escort, testified that he was paid thousands to engage in sexual acts with Ventura while Combs watched and sometimes participated. Phillip recounted instances where Combs directed him to use baby oil and even urinate on Ventura, all while being filmed. New York Post
Phillip also described a violent incident where Combs threw a liquor bottle at Ventura, dragged her by the hair, and left her in a state of terror. “She literally jumped into my lap and she was shaking, like literally her whole entire body was shaking. She was terrified,” Phillip said. Reuters
Combs’ defense attorney, Teny Geragos, argued that the relationships were consensual and that the accusers were seeking financial gain. Geragos emphasized that the sexual encounters were between consenting adults and that the prosecution’s case was built on sensationalism. Washington Post
Despite the defense’s claims, the prosecution painted a picture of a man who used his fame and power to manipulate and control women. They alleged that Combs used threats, drugs, and violence to maintain dominance over his victims. Al Jazeera
Outside the courtroom, the public’s reaction was swift and intense. Social media platforms were flooded with discussions about the trial, with many expressing shock and outrage over the allegations. Twitter
Combs, who has pleaded not guilty to all charges, faces a potential life sentence if convicted. The trial is expected to last several weeks, with more witnesses set to testify, including Ventura herself. ABC7NY
As the trial continues, the world watches closely, awaiting further revelations in a case that has already sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. CBS News
For a detailed overview of the trial’s opening day, watch this report: Watch: Coercion or consent? Opening statements in Diddy trial – BBC
Another in-depth analysis can be found here: Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs trial sees graphic evidence on opening day
Stay updated with live coverage: Sean Combs gestures to family in court as trial commences – YouTube
For more context on the allegations and the trial’s background, refer to this comprehensive article: Sean Combs sexual misconduct allegations – Wikipedia
As the proceedings unfold, the testimonies and evidence presented will continue to shed light on the disturbing claims against one of the music industry’s most prominent figures.
