Prosecutors allege Sean “Diddy” Combs used violence, drugs, and blackmail to control victims
Jurors in the federal trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs are expected to view graphic “Freak Off” sex tapes, which prosecutors say were used by Combs to blackmail and control women, including his former partner Cassie Ventura.
During opening statements this week, Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson presented a sweeping case alleging that Combs led a violent criminal enterprise involving kidnapping, drugging, sexual exploitation, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice.
“These are just some of the crimes the defendant and his crew committed again and again,” Johnson told the jury.
Central to the prosecution’s case are video recordings allegedly showing Ventura and other women, high on ecstasy, being coerced into group sex acts at the direction of Combs.
Prosecutors say the participants appeared to enjoy themselves only because “that’s what the defendant said he wanted,” alleging that the encounters were not consensual but carried out under duress and fear.
The tapes—described as “Freak Off” sessions by the prosecution—will be entered into evidence as part of an alleged pattern of psychological abuse and manipulation. Prosecutors claim Combs used the videos as tools of blackmail, threatening to release them to ruin the reputations of those who disobeyed him or attempted to leave his control.
According to the government, Ventura was one of several women victimized by Combs, who allegedly used threats and physical violence to isolate and dominate her. The defense has yet to present its case but is expected to argue that the relationships were consensual and that the allegations are being distorted for financial and reputational gain.
The jury is composed of eight men and four women. Legal analysts note that the case could hinge on the jury’s interpretation of the video content and whether they believe it supports the government’s claims of coercion, drug use, and exploitation.
Federal prosecutors have accused Diddy on five charges – including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking and engaging in prostitution. He denies them all.
If convicted, Combs could face significant prison time. He has denied all allegations and maintains his innocence.
The trial continues next week with testimony from key witnesses and further examination of video and digital evidence.
