Diddy sex trafficking trial testimony on Tuesday featured explosive allegations as key witnesses described a disturbing pattern of abuse, control, and coercion. Former assistant David James, Cassie’s mother, and dancer Sharay “The Punisher” Hayes testified to a culture of manipulation surrounding the music mogul.
The testimony painted a chilling portrait of a powerful entertainment figure allegedly orchestrating a hidden world of coercion, surveillance, and sexual exploitation behind his music empire.
Former assistant David James took the stand first, detailing how he was regularly tasked with preparing hotel rooms for Combs. He claimed these sessions required specific “setups”: baby oil, cash bundles, and drugs. James also recalled a disturbing incident where Combs allegedly loaded up a vehicle with three firearms and went out hunting for rival music mogul Suge Knight — a story that left the courtroom stunned.
Cassie Ventura’s mother, in emotional testimony, said Combs once threatened to release a sex tape of her daughter unless the family paid him $20,000. “He said we owed him,” she recounted. “It was a threat — plain and simple.”
Then came Sharay “The Punisher” Hayes, a male escort and exotic dancer, who testified that he was hired repeatedly for sex “performances” involving Combs and Ventura. He described surreal scenes — including one where Combs appeared naked but masked in a Muslim-style face covering, directing Hayes and Ventura like a “twisted film director” while throwing cash and condoms.
Hayes said he was hired between 8 to 12 times between 2012 and 2017, under the impression that he would be entertaining women. Instead, he described entering dimly lit rooms prepared like sets — where Combs would orchestrate sex acts while remaining masked and silent.
Prosecutors allege these incidents were not isolated but part of a calculated pattern — one in which Combs used his influence, wealth, and intimidation to manipulate and exploit victims under the guise of fame and opportunity. They argue that behind the glitz of his celebrity status lay a system of trafficking and coercion masked by luxury.
Combs denies all allegations, with his legal team calling the accusations “fabricated” and “sensational.” Still, the mounting testimonies — some from insiders within his circle — paint a starkly different narrative.
If convicted, Diddy could face life in prison.
Diddy sex trafficking trial continues this week, with more key witnesses expected to testify.