Jurors in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ ongoing federal sex-trafficking trial were presented Thursday, May 15, with explicit text messages exchanged between the music mogul and singer Cassie Ventura, who is testifying as the prosecution’s star witness.
The texts, dated back to 2009 during the early years of their 11-year on-and-off relationship, were used by Combs’ legal team to challenge Ventura’s claims of coercion, showing what the defense argues were enthusiastic and consensual exchanges about drug-fueled group sex acts referred to as “freak offs.”
One message from Ventura to Combs read: “I’m always ready to freak off LOLOL.” Combs replied, “You tell me the day. You choose. Name the day.”
In another exchange, Combs wrote, “I can’t wait to watch you,” to which Ventura responded, “Me too. I just want it to be uncontrollable.”
Combs’ attorneys highlighted the messages as part of an effort to show that Ventura participated in the encounters willingly. The texts were displayed prominently on courtroom screens while Ventura, now eight months pregnant, read them aloud in a subdued tone from the witness stand.
Ventura’s husband, Alex Fine, watched from the courtroom gallery as she testified. At times, he looked down at his lap, later shifting his gaze toward his wife and the large screen showing the messages to the public.
In earlier testimony, Ventura admitted she told Combs she enjoyed the encounters, but only because she felt it was the only way to maintain a connection with him. “I was just in love and wanted to make him happy,” she said. “I hated freak offs. I felt worthless, disgusting, and humiliated afterward. But I didn’t have the words to explain it at the time.”
Other messages from Ventura, also introduced by the defense, showed her preparing for planned encounters — including one where she texted about going to Duane Reade to buy candles and pack a bag for them.
Despite the defense’s presentation of these texts, Ventura maintained during her testimony that her participation was never truly voluntary. She described the relationship as emotionally abusive and isolating.
The defense has said it intends to show that not only Ventura but other women who have accused Combs engaged in the encounters of their own free will.
Thursday marked Ventura’s third day on the witness stand, with the cross-examination by defense attorney Anna M. Esteveo expected to conclude Friday.
Combs faces multiple charges, including racketeering and sex trafficking. If convicted, he could face life in prison.