On May 19, 2025, Dawn Richard, former Danity Kane and Diddy-Dirty Money singer, testified in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Manhattan federal trial, alleging she saw Combs assault his then-girlfriend Cassie Ventura multiple times, per Reuters.
Richard recounted a dinner in West Hollywood in 2010 where Combs allegedly punched Ventura in the stomach in front of Usher, Ne-Yo, and Jimmy Iovine, with no one intervening. Later, in a car, Combs reportedly grabbed Ventura’s neck and slapped her.
Dawn Richard, former Danity Kane member, took the stand in Diddy’s federal trial Monday—testifying about what she witnessed as an artist signed to Bad Boy.
While not listed as a victim, Richard shared details about the culture surrounding Diddy, including alleged violent… pic.twitter.com/Sl2rGYLjna
— Okayplayer (@okayplayer) May 19, 2025In 2009, Richard recounted an incident in which Combs allegedly struck Ventura with a skillet and threatened her and another witness, warning them that they “could go missing” if they spoke out. When questioned by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mitzi Steiner, Richard interpreted this as a death threat. Her testimony seeks to bolster the prosecutors’ claims of a pattern of violence and intimidation.
Combs’ Defence
Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty to charges of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and prostitution. If convicted, he faces a potential sentence of 15 years to life. Defence attorney Nicole Westmoreland questioned Richard’s credibility, pointing out her ongoing collaboration with Combs in 2011 and noting some minor inconsistencies in her previous statements, which could indicate fear or exaggeration. Richard cited concerns about her career and safety as reasons for her silence.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the trial, which has been heightened by Sean Combs’ legacy with Bad Boy Records, follows Cassie Ventura’s civil lawsuit from 2023 that was settled for $20 million. Prosecutors plan to call on former employees and medical professionals as witnesses, while the defence suggests they may bring in celebrity character witnesses.
Read: Dawn Richard Testifies in Diddy’s Sex Trafficking Trial, Alleges Abuse
Richard’s testimony, supporting Ventura’s earlier statements, highlights power imbalances in the music industry. The trial, which could last up to two months, has the potential to reshape Combs’ legacy and ignite broader discussions on accountability. Despite the personal risks involved, Richard’s choice to testify underscores her determination.
