(Scypre.com) – In a pivotal moment during Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial in New York, Regina Ventura, mother of singer Cassie Ventura, delivered compelling testimony alleging blackmail and abuse by the music mogul. Her statements have intensified scrutiny on Combs, who faces multiple charges including sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and transportation to engage in prostitution.
Regina Ventura recounted a distressing incident from December 2011, when Combs allegedly demanded $20,000 from her after discovering Cassie’s romantic involvement with rapper Kid Cudi. According to Ventura, Combs threatened to release explicit videos of Cassie and harm both her and Cudi. Fearing for her daughter’s safety, Ventura and her husband took out a home equity loan to pay the demanded sum, which was later returned.
Ventura testified that upon Cassie’s arrival home for Christmas in 2011, she observed bruises on her daughter’s body, including her backside, thigh, and shoulder. She documented these injuries with photographs, which were presented in court.
The prosecution’s case is bolstered by testimonies from Combs’ former assistant, David James, who described a work environment rife with drug use and intimidation. James alleged that Combs forced him to participate in and facilitate “freak-off” sex parties, often involving Cassie.
Additionally, exotic dancer Sharay Hayes testified about orchestrated sexual events arranged by Combs, further supporting claims of a pattern of abuse and exploitation.
Legal experts suggest that Regina Ventura’s testimony could significantly impact the trial’s outcome. Los Angeles litigator John J. Perlstein noted that while relatives can be perceived as biased, Ventura’s detailed account and supporting evidence lend credibility to her claims. He emphasized that the alleged $20,000 payment to prevent the release of explicit videos could be particularly damaging to Combs’ defense.
If convicted, Combs faces a sentence ranging from 15 years to life in prison. The trial is expected to continue for several more weeks, with additional testimonies anticipated. Combs has pleaded not guilty to all charges.