NEW YORK — The ongoing trial of Sean Combs has revealed troubling allegations involving violence and abuse, as Bad Boy Records’ artist Dawn Richard took the stand on Friday. Richard’s testimony aims to support claims made by Combs’ ex-girlfriend, Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, who has detailed a history of abusive behavior from the music mogul.
Richard, a prominent figure from Combs’ MTV reality show “Making the Band,” walked into the Manhattan courthouse but avoided direct eye contact with Combs. Her testimony came after Ventura’s extensive four-day account of the alleged abuse she endured during her 11-year relationship with Combs. The prosecution quickly directed Richard to recount a 2009 incident where she witnessed Combs assaulting Ventura over a meal.
According to Richard, Combs came downstairs in a rage, demanding his food. She described a chaotic scene where he allegedly struck Ventura with a skillet, causing her to fall to the ground in a protective position. Richard recalled the panic she felt during the assault, emphasizing she had never witnessed such violence before.
As Richard began detailing events that followed the attack—such as threats made against herself and her bandmate Kalenna Harper—Combs’ attorney interrupted, prompting the judge to adjourn for the day. Richard is expected to continue her testimony on Monday.
The incidents recounted by Richard echo allegations included in her own civil lawsuit against Combs, filed in September 2023. In the suit, she claimed Combs abused and harassed her throughout their working relationship, alleging he threatened her life after she witnessed him beat Ventura. Richard described Combs’ mannerisms as predatory, recalling the beginning of Ventura’s relationship with him nearly two decades ago, when she was just 19.
In her civil complaint, Richard detailed another shocking incident where Combs allegedly choked Ventura and hurled a hot frying pan at her, leaving her severely traumatized by the experience. Richard claims to have received chilling threats from Combs shortly after the attack, warning her of grave consequences should she speak out.
The prosecution is likely banking on Richard’s testimony to strengthen their case that Combs operated a criminal enterprise that concealed a range of serious offenses, including sex trafficking and abuse. Combs has consistently denied these allegations, stating through his legal team that he has never engaged in sexual abuse or trafficking.
During this trial, the jury has been presented with substantial evidence, including images of Ventura’s injuries and disturbing video footage that show Combs physically confronting her. Prosecutors played this footage multiple times, underscoring the brutality of Combs’ alleged actions.
Ventura, who is eight months pregnant while testifying, described her relationship with Combs as initially loving but gradually devolving into a nightmare of physical and emotional abuse. She testified that Combs used threats of public humiliation and violence to control her, which contributed to a sense of entrapment.
As the trial unfolds, attention remains focused on Combs’ extensive influence within the music industry and the disturbing allegations surrounding his behavior. The outcome could have significant implications not just for Combs, who faces multiple charges, but also for the broader entertainment industry as it grapples with issues of abuse and accountability. If convicted, Combs could face a lengthy prison sentence, further adding to the weight of this high-profile case.