Diddy Trial: Eighth Day of Proceedings Sees New Witness Testimonies
The trial of Sean "Diddy" Combs, accused of racketeering and sex-trafficking, has reached its eighth day. According to reports from CNN, the jury has heard testimony from 10 witnesses so far.
The previous day’s proceedings saw David James, a former assistant to Combs, take the stand. James described witnessing the music mogul use drugs and his role in stocking hotel rooms for Combs. He also testified about being subjected to lie detector tests and an intimidating search. As CNN reports, James’ testimony painted a picture of a closely controlled environment.
Regina Ventura, Cassie Ventura’s mother, also testified about her daughter’s relationship with Combs. She described how visits with her daughter became less frequent after she started dating Combs. Ventura also spoke about "memorializing" her daughter’s alleged abuse by taking photos of her condition and taking a home equity loan to pay Combs $20,000.
A male escort, Sharay Hayes, took the stand before the lunch break, outlining his role in creating a "sexy scene" with Ventura for Combs. Hayes’ testimony was followed by Gerard Gannon, a special agent with Homeland Security Investigations, who gave evidence under direct examination.
According to CNN, Hayes testified that he didn’t notice any discomfort from Ventura during his encounters with the pair. He also stated that he never saw any filming or violence and never used drugs with Combs or Ventura. Hayes did take medications to help his performance, describing the discomfort of a "sexual scenario with a woman’s partner present."
Hayes also revealed that his last session with Ventura and Combs was in 2016, when he failed to perform and was never called back. Before leaving, Hayes testified that Ventura paid him and thanked him for his discretion with their interactions.
Gannon’s testimony focused on the 2024 raid on Combs’ Miami Beach home. As CNN reports, Gannon was the special-agent-in-charge on the ground for the search, which was tied to a human-trafficking investigation. The jury saw photos of items found inside Combs’ main bedroom closet during the raid, including high heels, sex toys, baby oil, personal lubricant, and lingerie.
The search also uncovered "upper and lower receivers of AR-15s," which are parts of the weapon. Gannon’s testimony highlighted the extensive nature of the search, which involved between 80 and 90 law enforcement agents due to the size of the property and its security measures.
The trial continues, with further testimony expected. As CNN notes, the jury will hear more evidence and testimony in the coming days.
The allegations against Combs are serious, and the trial is expected to draw significant attention. According to CNN, the prosecution will continue to present its case, and the defense will have the opportunity to respond to the allegations.
This trial has implications for the music industry and those involved. As CNN reports, it will be closely watched by those following the case.
The ninth day of the trial is set to begin at 9 a.m. ET today, with Gerard Gannon’s testimony set to resume. The proceedings will continue to be closely monitored, and CNN will provide updates as more information becomes available.
