Cassie Faces Cross-Examination in Sean Combs’ Sex Trafficking Trial
Status Ain't Hood Staff
May 15, 2025
Casandra “Cassie” Ventura returned to the witness stand Thursday for the third day of testimony in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ ongoing sex trafficking and racketeering trial in New York. During cross-examination, defense attorneys introduced past text messages between Cassie and Combs that appeared to contradict her earlier claims of victimization. The messages, dating back to 2009, painted a different picture of her involvement in what she described as “freak-off” sessions—swinger-style encounters involving male escorts.
Cassie, now 38, previously testified that she was 19 when she began dating the then-38-year-old music mogul. She claimed she was manipulated and under the influence of drugs during their decade-long relationship. However, in one August 2009 message, Combs texted, “When do you want to Freak Off? Lol.” Cassie responded enthusiastically: “I’m always ready to Freak Off LOLOL… you tell me the day, you choose.” Another message from Combs read, “I can’t wait to watch you. I want you to get real hott [sic],” to which Cassie replied, “Me too, I just want it to be uncontrollable.”
As the jury reviewed these texts, Cassie appeared visibly shaken and requested a break, prompting a recess. While she had portrayed herself as a vulnerable, manipulated young woman, the defense argued the messages suggested she was a willing and active participant. The trial continues as both sides work to define the nature of Cassie’s role in the high-profile case.
Rihanna is back with new music—sort of. The pop icon has released “Friend of Mine,” her first new song in three years, as part of the upcoming Smurfs movie soundtrack, in which she also voices Smurfette. Debuting in the latest trailer for the animated film, the track arrives just days after Rihanna revealed her third pregnancy at the Met Gala, fueling even more anticipation for her long-awaited next album. Check out the video for "Friend of Mine" here.
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