- Cassie testified she received a $20 million settlement from Sean “Diddy” Combs after filing a 2023 lawsuit against him
- She accused Combs of rape, physical abuse, and forcing her into drug-fueled sex acts
- Her lawsuit was followed by a federal investigation that led to Combs’ 2024 arrest on charges of sex trafficking, racketeering, and transporting individuals for prostitution
Casandra “Cassie” Ventura took the stand in Manhattan federal court on May 14, revealing for the first time that she settled her 2023 lawsuit against Sean “Diddy” Combs for $20 million.
Her testimony came during the high-profile federal trial in which Combs faces charges including sex trafficking, racketeering and transportation to engage in prostitution.
The revelation came during direct examination by federal prosecutor Emily Johnson.
“Who paid you $20 million?” Johnson asked.
“Sean and his companies,” Ventura responded.
Ventura, a key witness for the prosecution, filed her lawsuit in November 2023 under New York’s Adult Survivors Act. She accused Combs of rape, physical abuse, and coercing her into drug-fueled sex acts with male escorts, which he allegedly filmed and used as blackmail.
Though the civil case was settled within 24 hours, it was followed by a broader federal investigation that ultimately led to Combs’ arrest in September 2024.
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During her testimony, Ventura recounted years of alleged control, manipulation and violence. She described being trapped in a decade-long relationship with Combs — saying he isolated her, watched her and threatened to release compromising footage if she defied him.
Combs has pleaded not guilty to all criminal charges. His legal team claims all encounters were consensual and that his accusers, including Ventura, participated willingly in the so-called “Freak-Offs.”
The trial, which began May 5, is expected to continue for several more weeks.
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