During her emotional testimony yesterday, Cassie Ventura shared a harrowing account of her tumultuous relationship with Sean “Diddy” Combs, highlighting numerous instances of physical violence. At one point, Ventura broke down in tears as she recounted her struggles with mental health, including a stint in rehab and trauma therapy that she underwent in February 2023. She described experiencing intense flashbacks during a music video shoot with another artist, stating, “I was suicidal.” This testimony sheds light on the disturbing dynamics of their relationship and the impact it had on her well-being.
Ventura provided a chilling narrative about the first instance of violence she experienced with Combs, which left her feeling “shocked.” She detailed multiple violent encounters, including a specific incident where she was beaten after attending a party at a Los Angeles club. In a terrifying moment, she described how Combs' security chased her when she tried to escape. Additionally, Ventura recounted a particularly traumatic event from 2018, where she alleged that Combs raped her in her own living room. She expressed feelings of being trapped, emphasizing Combs' access to firearms and his history of making threats against her, which continued even after their relationship ended.
Not only did Ventura endure abuse, but she also witnessed Combs’ violent behavior towards others. She mentioned instances where he became physically aggressive with his employees, recounting a time when she saw him punch someone in the head. In a shocking revelation, Ventura described an incident where Combs held her friend over the balcony railing of her Los Angeles apartment. This violent behavior ultimately led to the end of a 17-year friendship with her best friend in 2018, further isolating her during a tumultuous period.
In her testimony, Ventura also brought to light an incident involving rapper Kid Cudi. She recounted how Combs lunged at her with a wine opener upon discovering she was dating Cudi during a “Freak Off” event in 2011. Combs allegedly threatened that Kid Cudi’s car would be destroyed, and Ventura ominously noted that “around that time, Kid Cudi’s car exploded in his driveway.” This incident illustrates the extent of Combs' possessiveness and violent tendencies.
Ventura testified that early in their relationship, several individuals, including Combs' security personnel and driver, witnessed the physical abuse she suffered at his hands. In later years, she noted that assistants, including one named “Mia,” observed the violence and some even quit their jobs after witnessing the abuse Ventura endured. This acknowledgment from multiple witnesses underscores the severity of the situation and the ongoing pattern of abuse.
Throughout her relationship with Combs, Ventura shared that she became “heavily dependent on opiates.” She sought professional help for her substance use disorder five or six times during their time together. Notably, she mentioned that she last used drugs in 2022 and has since overcome her addiction, marking a significant step towards recovery.
In a significant development, Ventura disclosed that she received a $20 million settlement after filing a civil suit against Combs in November 2023. This settlement reflects the serious nature of her allegations and the legal ramifications of their troubled relationship.
If you or someone you know is facing intimate partner violence, it is crucial to seek help. Resources are available, including the National Domestic Violence Hotline. For mental health support, you can dial or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for free and confidential assistance.
