On Friday, May 16, Dawn Richard testified in the federal sex trafficking trial against Sean “Diddy” Combs. Her appearance followed four days of testimony from Casandra Elizabeth “Cassie” Ventura, Diddy’s former partner, who detailed allegations of physical and sexual abuse involving the prominent hip-hop figure. Richard, who collaborated with Diddy on the Making the Band reality show and was part of the groups Danity Kane and Diddy – Dirty Money, shared her own claims of verbal and physical abuse, documented in a separate lawsuit filed last year.
During her testimony, Richard recounted witnessing Diddy physically assault Cassie on several occasions. She described a 2009 incident at Diddy’s home where he allegedly attempted to strike Ventura with a frying pan. Cassie reportedly blocked the attack but fell to the ground in a “fetal position,” after which Diddy allegedly assaulted her further, dragging her upstairs. Richard expressed fear of intervening, stating, “I was scared that if I intervened, I might get [it] worse.”
The following day, Richard and her bandmate were reportedly summoned to a meeting with Diddy, where he allegedly locked the door and issued threats, warning them about the consequences of speaking out. Trial proceedings were paused when the lead defense attorney raised an objection. Richard is set to continue her testimony on May 19.
After her testimony, Cassie and her husband, Alex Fine, released statements through her attorney. Cassie noted, “This week has been extremely challenging but also remarkably empowering and healing for me. I hope my testimony has given strength to other survivors.” Fine added, “Cassie saved Cassie. She alone broke free from abuse and threats.”
