Pop Star Testifies to Diddy’s Abuse, Faces Intense Court Scrutiny
Pop singer Dawn Richard has testified in a Manhattan federal court that she witnessed Sean “Diddy” Combs physically assault his then-girlfriend, Casandra Ventura, multiple times. Richard, a former member of Danity Kane—signed to Combs’ label—told the jury she feared for her life after the music mogul warned her to remain silent.
Testifying during Combs’ ongoing sex trafficking trial, Richard said Combs once told her, “I come from a place where people go missing,” reinforcing her fear of speaking out. “I was shocked but also scared,” she said. “I felt like we could die if we said anything.”
Richard’s appearance marked the sixth day of the high-profile trial, which has garnered national attention due to Combs’ influence in the music industry. The 55-year-old faces five felony charges, including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transporting individuals for prostitution. He has pleaded not guilty and remains in custody at a Brooklyn jail. If convicted, he could face 15 years to life in prison.
The singer’s testimony, however, came under fierce cross-examination from Combs’ defense attorney, Nicole Westmoreland. Richard was pressed on inconsistencies between her courtroom statements and earlier interviews with prosecutors. She was questioned about whether she saw or only heard certain alleged attacks, failed to initially mention threats by Combs, and gave conflicting accounts about his drug use.
“We can agree your testimony has changed on quite a few things?” Westmoreland asked.
“I think as time progresses I get better at knowing what went on because it was quite a long time ago,” Richard responded.
Her testimony followed that of Ventura—known professionally as Cassie—who spent four days detailing her 11-year relationship with Combs. She alleged sustained emotional and physical abuse, as well as being coerced into drug-fueled “Freak Off” sex parties. Ventura also accused Combs of raping her in August 2018, after their relationship had ended.
The defense attempted to counter the rape allegation by presenting text messages that appeared to show Ventura and Combs had consensual sex weeks after the alleged assault.
Another witness, Kerry Morgan—a former friend of Ventura—also testified that she witnessed Combs physically attacking Ventura on several occasions.
Prosecutors are expected to call Ventura’s mother, Regina Ventura, as a witness in the coming days.
Combs, also known as Puff Daddy and P Diddy, founded Bad Boy Records and helped launch the careers of artists like Mary J. Blige, Faith Evans, Notorious B.I.G., and Usher. Part of the current criminal case stems from Ventura’s 2023 civil lawsuit, which was settled within 24 hours for $20 million.
