June 10, 2025: Sean “Diddy” Combs is facing serious federal charges of sex trafficking and racketeering, and the ongoing trial has become one of the most closely followed courtroom sagas in recent memory. The hip-hop mogul, who has pleaded not guilty, is at the center of a high-profile case filled with graphic testimony, disturbing evidence, and celebrity witnesses.
In the latest episode of The Story Behind the Story, host Julie Walker speaks with reporters Larry Neumeister and Michael Sisak, who have been covering the trial from inside the courtroom.
Also read:Judge Weighs Expert Testimony in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Trial Amid Shocking Witness Accounts
The trial, which began in May, is expected to conclude by July 4. The prosecution alleges that Combs used violence and coercion to maintain control over individuals within his inner circle and facilitated sex trafficking operations across state lines.
Federal Charges and the 2016 Cassie Tape
Reporter Larry Neumeister explains the backbone of the federal case: “When the feds go after someone, they focus on federal crimes. In this case, it’s sex trafficking—transporting individuals across state lines for illegal sexual activity—and racketeering. A key piece of evidence is the 2016 surveillance tape showing Combs dragging and kicking Cassie Ventura in a Los Angeles hotel hallway.”
While Combs hasn’t been charged with domestic violence—since that falls under state law and is limited by statutes of limitations—the prosecution argues that such violence is part of the broader racketeering scheme.
Graphic Testimony and Evidence
Cassie Ventura was one of the first witnesses to take the stand, testifying before giving birth shortly after. Her testimony included disturbing details about alleged “freak-offs” and sex marathons that prosecutors say were organized and concealed by Combs and his associates.
Michael Sisak noted that explicit images were shown in court, although they were not made visible to the press or public. “Combs himself looked through a binder of the images, shielded them from view, and passed them back. At other times, he reviewed digital exhibits including text messages and emails.”
The Jury and a Changed Combs
The courtroom’s jury of eight women and four men, along with six alternates, has been described as highly attentive. “I’ve never seen a jury so focused,” said Neumeister. “They’re constantly taking notes, never distracted.”
Meanwhile, Combs’ appearance has changed dramatically since his arrest. Once known for his perfectly groomed look, he now sports salt-and-pepper hair and dresses modestly in sweaters and khakis, as jail regulations prohibit hair dye.
Kid Cudi’s Exploded Car and a Dramatic Cross
In a dramatic moment, rapper Kid Cudi testified about his car being firebombed with a Molotov cocktail. He said that during a meeting weeks later, Combs feigned ignorance of the incident. Prosecutors used the moment to suggest that Combs was being dishonest.
Neumeister noted how closely Combs is involved in his defense, describing him as “intensely engaged” and communicating actively with his legal team throughout.
With testimony continuing and the trial heading toward its conclusion, the case remains one of the most talked-about legal dramas involving a celebrity in recent history.