Sean (Diddy) Combs threatened me with death, singer Dawn Richard tells jury

Singer Dawn Richard took the stand at the Sean (Diddy) Combs sex trafficking trial and made shocking allegations against the hip-hop mogul. Richard testified that Combs threatened to kill her if she revealed that she had witnessed him physically abusing his longtime girlfriend, Casandra (Cassie) Ventura. The threats came after Richard saw Combs punch and kick Cassie, leaving her horrified and afraid for her own safety.

Richard revealed that Combs warned her and another woman who witnessed the attack that they could go missing if they spoke out. She interpreted this threat as a clear message that they could potentially be killed if they didn’t keep quiet about the abuse. This terrifying experience occurred as Richard was just beginning to collaborate with Combs on music, highlighting the power dynamics at play in the entertainment industry.

During the trial, Cassie’s former best friend and roommate, Kerry Morgan, also testified about the abuse she witnessed. Morgan recounted an incident where Combs left her with a concussion after choking her and throwing a wooden hanger at her in a fit of rage. Despite the violent encounter, Cassie reportedly convinced Morgan to sign a non-disclosure agreement in exchange for money from Combs, ultimately ending their 17-year friendship.

Both Richard and Morgan detailed instances of physical violence and control that Combs allegedly exerted over Cassie. Richard testified that she saw Combs beat Cassie multiple times, including punching, choking, and kicking her. She described how Cassie would cover up her injuries with makeup and clothing, indicating the extent of the abuse she endured.

Combs, who is facing charges of sex trafficking and racketeering, has denied the allegations against him. His defense team has argued that the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence to support the federal crimes charged. However, the testimonies from Richard, Cassie, and Morgan paint a disturbing picture of a pattern of abuse and manipulation within Combs’ relationships.

The trial has shed light on the alleged exploitation of women in the entertainment industry, with Cassie revealing that Combs controlled her music career and stifled her creativity. Despite signing a record deal with Bad Boy Records, Cassie testified that Combs refused to release her music and dictated her success on his own terms.

Richard also spoke about how Combs would become violent when she and other artists tried to help Cassie with her songs, highlighting the toxic power dynamics at play. She emphasized that Combs’ control over Cassie extended beyond their personal relationship and into her professional aspirations.

As the trial continues, it is clear that the allegations of abuse and manipulation are deeply disturbing and have far-reaching implications. The testimonies from Richard, Cassie, and Morgan underscore the importance of holding individuals in positions of power accountable for their actions. The support available for survivors of sexual assault is crucial in ensuring that they have access to resources and assistance in times of need.