Cassie Ventura’s testimony pivotal in Sean Combs’ federal trial outcome, says attorney Douglas Wigdor, after guilty verdict on transportation for prostitution counts
In the wake of Sean “Diddy” Combs being found guilty on two counts of transportation for prostitution, but acquitted on more serious charges of sex trafficking and racketeering, Cassie Ventura’s attorney has released a powerful statement commending her courage. Douglas H. Wigdor, Ventura’s lawyer, emphasized that her civil complaint — filed in November 2023 — was the catalyst that led to the federal case against the music mogul and ultimately resulted in the partial conviction.
Cassie’s Courage Sparked a Legal Reckoning
“This entire criminal process started when our client Cassie Ventura had the courage to file her civil complaint in November 2023,” Wigdor said in a statement shared with Variety. “Although the jury did not find Combs guilty of sex trafficking Cassie beyond a reasonable doubt, she paved the way for a jury to find him guilty of transportation to engage in prostitution.”
Wigdor praised Ventura for her resilience throughout the emotionally charged trial: “By coming forward with her experience, Cassie has left an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and the fight for justice. She displayed unquestionable strength and brought attention to the realities of powerful men in our orbit and the misconduct that has persisted for decades without repercussion.”
A Landmark Case with Industry-Wide Implications
Ventura, who initially filed a civil lawsuit alleging rape and abuse by Combs, reached a quick settlement at the time — but later became a central witness in his federal trial. Her four-day testimony was detailed and harrowing, painting a picture of psychological and physical abuse over their 11-year relationship.
One of the most damning pieces of evidence was a 2016 hotel surveillance video showing Combs violently attacking Ventura in a Los Angeles hallway. The footage, which stunned the courtroom, was acknowledged even by Combs’ own legal team as indefensible. “We own the domestic violence,” his lawyers conceded, though they argued against the more severe trafficking-related charges.
Guilty Verdicts and What Comes Next
While Combs was cleared of the more serious sex trafficking and racketeering charges, the jury found him guilty on two counts of transporting individuals to engage in prostitution, each carrying a maximum sentence of 10 years. Sentencing is pending.
Despite the mixed verdict, Wigdor emphasized the broader victory in spotlighting abuse of power in the entertainment world. “This case proved that change is long overdue,” he said. “We will continue to fight on behalf of survivors.”
A Turning Point for Accountability
The verdict marks a significant moment not only for Cassie Ventura but for the broader conversation around power, abuse, and accountability in the entertainment industry. Wigdor closed his statement with unwavering support: “We must repeat – with no reservation – that we believe and support our client who showed exemplary courage throughout this trial.”