Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs used fame and violence to sexually abuse women, trial hears

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Trial

Sean "Diddy" Combs is on trial for serious charges. Prosecutors say he used fame and violence to abuse women. His lawyers defend his lifestyle as a "swinger."

The 55-year-old has pleaded not guilty. Charges include racketeering, sex trafficking, and prostitution.

Prosecutors called their first witnesses in court. A hotel security guard testified about a viral video from 2016. In the video, Mr. Combs is seen beating his ex-girlfriend.

Another witness said Mr. Combs abused his ex-girlfriend during paid encounters. On Monday morning, the court seated 12 jurors and six alternates.

Prosecutor Emily Johnson outlined the government's case against Mr. Combs. She accused him of using celebrity status to run a criminal enterprise.

Johnson focused on two main alleged victims: Cassandra Ventura and another unnamed woman. She claimed Mr. Combs threatened Ms. Ventura's music career to force her into humiliating acts.

These acts included non-consensual sexual encounters filmed by Mr. Combs himself. Johnson stated that he had the power to ruin Ms. Ventura's life.

As these allegations were presented, Mr. Combs sat quietly in court. He wore a grey sweater and trousers with a blank expression on his face.