Day 4 Recap Cassie Ventura’s testimony during cross-examination in sex-trafficking case

On Thursday, Cassie Ventura, Sean "Diddy" Combs' former girlfriend, testified for a third day as defense attorneys began cross-examination. They focused on their nearly 11-year on-and-off relationship, presenting numerous messages between them, including sexually explicit, affectionate, and jealous exchanges. The defense highlighted Ventura’s drug use, noting instances where she used drugs independently of Combs.

The defense inquired about Ventura’s feelings for Combs. She admitted to being in love with him, describing a whirlwind and intimidating start to their relationship. Over time, she believed she saw his true personality emerge, calling him "sweet, attentive."

The defense asked, "You told him you wanted to do 'freak offs?'"

"No, there's a lot more to that," Ventura replied.

Text messages scrutinized

Messages revealed Ventura assisting Combs in organizing a "freak off," with Combs expressing a desire for a specific escort’s presence.

He allegedly wrote: "Wanna call him and feel him out?"

"Yeah, I can do that," Ventura replied.

Attorney Donte Mills, not involved in the case, commented, "We can't judge them for being illegal or criminal if both sides are willing participants. So what they wanted to do was lay the foundation that this was a relationship that she wanted to be in. And that she wanted to participate in this type of activities."

The defense referenced Ventura’s earlier testimony about fearing that "freak off" tapes could ruin her career and questioned her about her civil lawsuit against Combs.

"You understand his career was ruined right?" the defense asked.

"I could understand that," Ventura said.

The defense also explored early discussions about the swinger lifestyle, asking if Ventura understood "freak offs" as part of it.

"They're very different," Ventura replied.

Another message showed Ventura allegedly requesting pills from Combs, though she couldn’t recall the type. The defense asked if they were both addicts.

"During that time, yes," she testified.

"Did you ever take drugs from him without him knowing about it?" the defense asked.

"Yeah," Ventura replied, noting Combs’ "explosive" reaction.

The defense also probed issues of jealousy and infidelity.

Combs’ sons and mother attended court, but his daughters did not. Ventura, 8½ months pregnant, will continue testifying Friday.

Combs has pleaded not guilty to five counts, including sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy, with allegations that he used employees to enable illegal activities.