Opening statements began in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ high-profile sex trafficking trial, with prosecutors accusing him of running a criminal enterprise for 20 years, while the defense argues the case misrepresents consensual adult relationships.
Prosecutors painted Combs, a cultural icon, as a man with a dark side, alleging he orchestrated drug-fueled “freak offs” and coerced women, including ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, into sexual acts. They claim his trusted inner circle enabled crimes spanning decades.
The defense countered, accusing the government of twisting personal choices into a racketeering case. They framed a widely publicized hotel security video of Combs and Ventura as a phone dispute, not evidence of trafficking, emphasizing domestic violence isn’t among the charges. Combs, maintaining innocence, appeared passive in court, arms crossed, as explicit details unfolded.
Legal analyst Areva Martin noted prosecutors aim to prove violence and coercion, while the defense insists all acts involved consenting adults. They also argue Ventura’s video reflects a personal conflict, not trafficking. The defense strategy focuses on keeping jurors centered on the charges, not Combs’ character, with attorneys stating. “He’s not being prosecuted for being mean.”
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Key witnesses, including an escort and Ventura, are expected soon. Ventura’s testimony, detailing her relationship with Combs, will likely be emotional, prosecutors say. At least four alleged victims will testify, raising questions about why they didn’t report earlier—a point the prosecution attributes to the psychological toll of trafficking.
The trial, drawing intense scrutiny, could see witnesses called as early as today. Setting the stage for a contentious legal battle.
