Context:

Cassie Ventura, the ex-girlfriend of Sean 'Diddy' Combs, took the stand in his sex trafficking trial, detailing a history of control and abuse during their 11-year relationship. She testified that Combs controlled every aspect of her life, including financial and personal decisions, and subjected her to 'freak-offs' involving male escorts. Ventura described these encounters as humiliating and a means for Combs to exert dominance, claiming they were manipulated by him and involved drug use to cope. She alleged that Combs organized and directed these events, even providing financial compensation to the escorts. Ventura's testimony is crucial in the prosecution's case against Combs, who faces charges including racketeering conspiracy and transportation to engage in prostitution.

Dive Deeper:

• Cassie Ventura, once signed to Sean Combs' record label, described their relationship as one initially filled with love but soon marred by control and violence. She recounted how Combs managed her life, dictating her appearance and work, and resorted to physical abuse, leaving her with visible injuries.

• The testimony focused on 'freak-offs', where Ventura was coerced into sexual encounters with male escorts, which Combs orchestrated. Ventura said she participated initially to appease Combs but felt degraded and used drugs to disassociate from the experiences.

• Ventura revealed that Combs paid the escorts substantial amounts, and the encounters were meticulously planned, involving specific attire and actions dictated by Combs. These events occurred in various cities, and sometimes men were flown in specifically for these purposes.

• Throughout her testimony, Ventura highlighted Combs' controlling nature, emphasizing that every detail of the encounters, from clothing to lighting, was under his direction. Despite feeling uncomfortable, her concerns were dismissed by Combs, leading to a pattern of submission.

• The trial is centered around allegations of sex trafficking and racketeering, with Ventura's testimony serving as a key component in demonstrating Combs' exploitative behavior and manipulation. Her accounts aim to support the prosecution's claims of Combs' involvement in orchestrating these illicit activities.