Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ lawyers plan to accuse ex-girlfriend of domestic violence at sex

In a significant development during the sex trafficking trial of hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, his legal team has stated they intend to accuse his ex-girlfriend, Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, of domestic violence when she takes the stand.

Combs has entered a not guilty plea to multiple felony charges, including one count of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking, and two counts of transportation for prostitution. If found guilty, he could face a sentence ranging from decades behind bars to life in prison.

Defense attorney Marc Agnifilo informed U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian during a court hearing that the defense plans to present evidence suggesting there was "mutual violence" between Combs and Ventura. Ventura is expected to be a crucial witness for the prosecution.

Agnifilo argued that demonstrating Ventura's alleged history of violence would serve to undermine the prosecution's portrayal of her as a victim in the case. Lawyers representing Ventura have not commented on Agnifilo's remarks.

Judge Subramanian appeared hesitant about allowing the defense to introduce evidence pertaining to Ventura's alleged violence but indicated he would issue a ruling on the matter when the trial is set to formally begin. A jury of 12 New Yorkers is scheduled to be finalized soon, ahead of opening statements from both sides.

Combs, aged 55, was present in the courtroom during the proceedings. He has been held in a federal detention facility in Brooklyn since his arrest last September.

The trial is taking place in Manhattan federal court and is expected to span approximately eight weeks, according to Judge Subramanian. Any verdict reached must be unanimous.

Prosecutors from the Manhattan U.S. Attorney’s office allege that over two decades, Combs utilized his expansive business network to draw women in, promising relationships or financial aid, only to then violently coerce them into participating in prolonged, drug-fueled sexual events referred to as “Freak Offs.”

In response, Combs' legal team has argued that prosecutors are unfairly attempting to criminalize Combs' acknowledged "swinger lifestyle." They have signaled their intention to challenge the credibility of the alleged victims who are expected to testify, suggesting these individuals may have financial motivations for their accusations and have provided inconsistent accounts to investigators.