NEW YORK — Hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs is facing serious allegations as testimony unfolds in his high-profile sex trafficking trial. A friend of his former girlfriend, Casandra Ventura, recounted a harrowing incident from September 2016 during the proceedings.
Bryana Bongolan, 33, testified in a federal court that Combs dangled her over the edge of a 17-story balcony. She detailed how he subsequently threw her onto the balcony furniture, resulting in bruises and persistent night terrors and paranoia.
The trial, now in its fourth week, is marked by disturbing claims from multiple witnesses. Federal prosecutors accuse Combs, 55, of coercing women over two decades into participating in drug-fueled sexual performances with male sex workers, referred to as “Freak Offs.”
Ventura, known professionally as Cassie, had previously told jurors that she participated in these encounters for nearly a decade. She described initially engaging in the activities to satisfy Combs, later claiming he blackmailed her with footage of their encounters. Ventura also alleged that Combs had physically abused her during their relationship.
The prosecution’s case posits that force and intimidation were common tools for Combs and his associates to control women and suppress witnesses to his alleged misconduct. In contrast, Combs’ defense team acknowledges past abusive behavior in his relationships but argues that the women involved in the Freak Offs did so consensually.
If found guilty of the five charges, which include racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, Combs could be sentenced to life in prison. Prosecutors have indicated that they might wrap up their case as early as next week, paving the way for the defense to present its arguments.
The courtroom atmosphere remains tense as the trial progresses, with both sides preparing for a confrontation that could have serious repercussions for Combs and the broader conversation about consent and abuse in show business.
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