The ongoing Sean Combs trial has captivated the nation with its shocking revelations surrounding his now-infamous “freak-offs.” However, beneath the sensationalism lies a significant issue: the critical role that domestic violence plays in establishing power and control over a partner, which can lead to serious federal crimes such as sex trafficking and forced labor. In the opening statement, Combs’ defense team attempted to downplay his misconduct towards star witness Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, framing it as mere domestic violence rather than sex trafficking, implying that the two concepts are mutually exclusive.
Throughout the trial, the defense reiterated to the jury that “Domestic violence is not sex trafficking.” They acknowledged the extraordinary violence Combs inflicted on Ventura, calling it “dehumanizing,” “terrible,” and “indefensible.” However, they argued that despite this violence, Ventura willingly participated in the notorious freak-offs, labeling his physical and emotional abuse as episodes of drug-induced jealousy. This defense strategy fails to recognize that sex traffickers often employ both physical and psychological abuse over extended periods to manipulate their victims into compliance.
As a former federal prosecutor in Brooklyn, I witnessed firsthand the tactics employed by sex traffickers, much like those attributed to Combs. Ventura’s courageous testimony outlined various means by which Combs maintained control over her during their decade-long relationship. She began dating him at the age of 21, a time when she was both sexually inexperienced and new to the music industry. In stark contrast, Combs was 17 years her senior, already established as a superstar rapper, producer, and business mogul.
Ventura testified that Combs exerted control over every aspect of her life, including her career and personal appearance. She described instances of extreme violence, including being kicked, stomped on, and dragged by her hair. The jury has been shown harrowing video footage from the InterContinental Hotel and photographs depicting her injuries. Prosecutors have called multiple witnesses to corroborate the varied forms of abuse Combs allegedly inflicted, and we can expect further evidence as the trial progresses.
One poignant vignette shared during Ventura’s testimony illustrates the dangerous link between violence, abuse, and trafficking. During a trip to France for a film festival, Combs allegedly demanded Ventura disembark from a yacht in response to a perceived slight, forcing her to leave barefoot and without her belongings, including her passport. Later that evening, he violently squeezed her thigh at an event, causing pain. Despite attempting to escape his presence on the return flight, Combs managed to sit next to her and played “freak-off” videos of her, threatening to release them to further humiliate her. Upon landing, he demanded another freak-off, and under immense pressure, she acquiesced.
If the jury finds Ventura credible, it is not difficult to conclude that her acquiescence stemmed from a clear message from Combs: comply with his demands, or face severe repercussions. This exemplifies how a pattern of abuse can erode a victim’s will, leading to coercion, which aligns with the definitions of both domestic violence and sex trafficking.
Combs’ legal team may have gained some traction with the jury by highlighting text messages from Ventura that suggest she enjoyed certain freak-offs and considered herself a willing participant. Yet, it is widely understood that victims of domestic abuse often seek to appease their abusers to halt the cycle of violence. Ventura’s messages could reflect an attempt to placate Combs, or perhaps her feelings towards the freak-offs changed over time. Regardless, as the trial nears its conclusion, prosecutors are expected to present a compelling case illustrating a long-term pattern of abuse that demonstrates Combs’ calculated efforts to coerce Ventura into compliance with his demands.
In summary, the evidence presented suggests that Combs engaged in a systematic plan to ensure that Ventura understood the dire consequences of non-compliance. This included physical abuse, impeding her career, and threatening her with public humiliation through the release of sex tapes. The behaviors described not only reflect a case of sex trafficking but also highlight the pervasive nature of domestic violence. As the trial unfolds, it underscores the urgent need to address these intertwined issues within the legal system and society at large.
