Diddy’s trial update: Former assistant recalls how Sean Combs assaulted ex Cassie at Brad Pitt’s movie premiere

Sean "Diddy" Combs’ federal sex crimes trial has moved into its fifth week, and a court session in Manhattan featured significant testimony from a former worker offering more details about the music mogul’s alleged abuse and control over time.

The witness known in court as "Mia," worked as the rapper's assistant from 2009 to 2017. She described situations of emotional pressure and threats in her role, adding her voice to a growing list of accusations from ex-colleagues. While Diddy's lawyers continue to deny the claims, Mia’s questioning on the stand has emerged as a key moment in the ongoing trial.

Mia, a former assistant, shared a story during her testimony on June 2 about something that happened back in 2012 at the Cannes Film Festival in France. She talked about an argument that happened during the premiere of "Killing Them Softly," a Brad Pitt movie. Mia claimed Sean Combs clenched his teeth and pressed his nails into Ventura Fine’s arm while telling her to go. Ventura Fine ended up leaving after that.

The trial against Sean Combs continues this week, bringing more big names to the stand. Radio host Enrique Santos is likely to testify, along with Frank Piazza, though how he's connected to the case isn't clear yet. Two workers from the InterContinental Hotel, where surveillance footage shows Combs attacking Cassandra “Cassie” Ventura Fine, will also take the stand. Hotel security supervisor Eddie Garcia will share his testimony under immunity. Custodian Sylvia Okun is set to testify as well.

Testimony highlights alleged abuse and power dynamics as Diddy trial advances

While testifying, Mia shared what she called a repeated pattern of mental control. She said she worked hard to get the American rapper's approval during her time working for him. Her statements are part of a larger federal case where the rapper, now 55, is accused of serious crimes like sex trafficking, racketeering, and transporting people to engage in prostitution. He has denied all the charges by pleading not guilty.

Defense attorneys attempted to undermine Mia’s credibility by referencing old text messages and social media interactions, including a message she sent in 2019 referencing a dream involving the rapper and disgraced musician R. Kelly. In the text, she described a nightmare in which she was trapped with Kelly and rescued by Diddy. The defense questioned why she would reach out to someone she now accuses of abuse, especially with such emotionally charged content.

Mia shared her thoughts and shed light on the complexities behind trauma bonds. She said she continued to see the rapper as someone who gave her emotional comfort, even though she accused him of abuse. She added that she sent the message soon after Kim Porter, Diddy's longtime partner, passed away. She explained that she wanted to show support during his time of mourning.

The rapper's lawyers pointed to this message to question her story’s consistency. Mia, however, argued that sending such messages is common among abuse survivors. She said many victims often find it hard to separate their true feelings from years of manipulation.

The trial has highlighted many personal accounts, each helping sketch a picture of alleged widespread abuse tied to the American rapper’s work environment. Prosecutors aim to build a case that focuses on claims about how Diddy’s power in the entertainment world allowed him not only to conduct business but also to hide and enable sexual wrongdoing.

Diddy, who was once a towering name in music and business, now faces a court fight that could reshape how he is remembered.

The trial moves forward as both sides prepare to call more witnesses and show more evidence. Public and media attention remains high as the case is expected to unfold over the next several weeks.

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