Diddy Testimony Tuesday Centered On Threats of Violence

The federal sex trafficking and racketeering trial of Sean "Diddy" Combs, held in Manhattan’s Daniel Patrick Moynihan courthouse, marked its 10th day of testimony Tuesday. 

The sole witness was Capricorn Clark, a former assistant to Combs, whose testimony provided dramatic insights into his behavior. Key developments include:

Clark’s Testimony on Threats and Violence: Clark testified that Combs repeatedly threatened her life, including an incident where he warned she’d be thrown “in the East River” if she failed a lie detector test over stolen jewelry. She described being “petrified” during her time working for him. Clark recounted accompanying Combs, who was armed with a gun, to rapper Kid Cudi’s home during a fit of rage over Cudi’s brief 2011 relationship with Cassie Ventura, Combs’ former girlfriend. Clark alleged Combs intended to kill Cudi and witnessed him viciously beating Ventura over the same issue. She also claimed Combs used a burner phone to call Ventura during the incident and said she didn’t report it to police out of fear, as Combs threatened harm if authorities were involved.

Cross-Examination Details: After the lunch break, defense attorney Marc Agnifilo cross-examined Clark, focusing on her feelings toward Combs and her perceptions of Ventura’s behavior. Clark noted Ventura’s demeanor shifted around 2008, becoming “feistier” as Combs’ girlfriend, and mentioned Ventura’s drug use in 2016, which Clark said hindered her career opportunities. Despite Ventura’s access to top-tier industry professionals, Clark testified her live performances were subpar, though she acknowledged Ventura’s talent.

The trial, presided over by Judge Arun Subramanian, adjourned for the day after Clark’s testimony. Prosecutors indicated they would call witnesses from the Los Angeles Police and Fire Departments on Wednesday. The prosecution, led by Maurene Comey, expressed confidence in staying on schedule, aiming to conclude their case by early July.