In a bombshell lawsuit filed in federal court on Thursday, singer Cassie Ventura, known professionally as Cassie, accused music mogul Sean Combs, also known as P. Diddy, of subjecting her to years of physical and emotional abuse, as well as rape and sex trafficking. Ventura, 35, alleges that Combs, 52, began abusing her shortly after signing her to his record label Bad Boy Records in 2005 when she was just 19 years old.
The lawsuit details a series of disturbing allegations, including claims that Combs would beat, kick, and stomp on Ventura, and that he would force her to have sex with other men while he watched. Ventura also alleges that Combs would ply her with drugs and alcohol, and that he would threaten to blacklist her in the music industry if she ever spoke out about his abuse.
Ventura’s allegations paint a picture of a long-term pattern of abuse and control. She claims that Combs would isolate her from her family and friends, and that he would constantly monitor her whereabouts and communications. She also alleges that Combs would sabotage her career, preventing her from releasing new music or performing at concerts.
Ventura is seeking damages for emotional distress, lost wages, and punitive damages. She is also asking the court to issue a restraining order against Combs.
“This lawsuit is about holding P. Diddy accountable for his years of abuse and control,” said Ventura’s attorney, Douglas Wigdor, in a statement. “Cassie is a brave and courageous survivor who is finally ready to speak her truth.”
Combs has denied all of the allegations in the lawsuit. His attorney, Michael Zweifach, called the lawsuit “a desperate attempt to grab attention and extract money from Mr. Combs.”
The allegations against Combs come as no surprise to those who have followed his career. The music mogul has a long history of violence and misogyny, and he has been accused of abuse by multiple women. In 1999, Combs was charged with assault after he allegedly beat up his then-girlfriend, Misa Hylton. He was acquitted of the charges, but the incident cast a dark shadow over his reputation.
Ventura’s lawsuit is a powerful reminder that even the most powerful men can be held accountable for their actions. Her courage in speaking out could inspire other victims of abuse to come forward and seek justice.
The lawsuit is still pending, and it is unclear what the outcome will be. However, Ventura’s allegations have already had a significant impact on Combs’s reputation. He has been dropped by several brands, and he has been forced to cancel several public appearances.
