Washington [US] : In a significant development ahead of his federal trial, music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs’ attorney Marc Agnifilo acknowledged in court that domestic violence took place during the rapper’s past relationship with Cassie Ventura.
Speaking on May 9, Agnifilo told the court that the defence would argue there was “mutual violence” in the relationship, stating, “There was hitting on both sides,” and emphasized its relevance to the coercive elements involved in the case. This public admission comes as Combs faces serious federal charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering.
The acknowledgment brings renewed attention to Combs’ long and controversial relationship with Ventura, which lasted from 2007 to 2018. Ventura previously filed a lawsuit in November 2023, accusing Combs of rape, which was later settled privately. Details of the agreement were not made public, but Ventura expressed her desire for closure and autonomy.
“I have decided to resolve this matter amicably on terms that I have some level of control,” she said, thanking her supporters.
Combs also issued a statement following the settlement, wishing Ventura well. In May 2024, after a 2016 surveillance video surfaced showing Combs physically assaulting Ventura in a hotel hallway, he shared a video on Instagram addressing the footage.
“I went and I sought out professional help. I got into therapy, rehab, and had to ask God for mercy. I’m so sorry. I’m committed to becoming a better man each day,” he said.
Ventura, now married to Alex Fine and expecting their third child, responded with an emotional statement reflecting on the trauma she endured.
“It broke me down to someone I never thought I would become. With a lot of hard work, I am better today, but I will always be recovering from my past.”
As the trial approaches, the revelations have added complexity to a case already drawing intense public scrutiny. The court proceedings will delve into both the legal and emotional dimensions of a relationship now central to Combs’ legal defense.