On Wednesday, the federal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs resumed in Manhattan with a continuation of the defense’s cross-examination of his former girlfriend, referred to in court as Jane. Picking up from Tuesday’s proceedings, Diddy’s attorney, Teny Geragos, pressed Jane on the nature of their relationship, pointing to text exchanges and financial support that could suggest mutual consent rather than coercion. Jane, however, maintained that she felt pressured into sexual situations involving escorts, telling jurors, “I was just adapting to my circumstances and my environment.” Diddy has pleaded not guilty to charges including sex trafficking and racketeering.
Geragos emphasized that Diddy had covered Jane’s living expenses—roughly $40,000—after she moved in April 2023, suggesting a level of care and mutual involvement. Jane countered that the financial support came with control, making her feel obligated to comply with his wishes. She described a birthday “hotel night” celebration that left her emotionally scarred, saying, “I resent him for knowing how much I loved him and knowing I couldn’t say no to him.” Her testimony painted a picture of conflicted intimacy, where affection and emotional dependence were clouded by coercive dynamics.
Defense Cites Love Letters, Extortion to Show Diddy’s Emotional Depth
The defense also focused on Diddy’s past relationship with Cassie Ventura, whom Jane said he called “one of his greatest loves.” Geragos introduced letters Diddy had written to Ventura—some while under the influence—to suggest a capacity for deep emotional connection. Jane acknowledged the letters but noted that Diddy often expressed affection after outbursts or controlling behavior. She testified that she would sometimes propose “freak-offs” to ease tension or appease his insecurities.
A separate incident involving a man named Sly Williams was also examined. Jane testified that Williams, who had participated in one of their encounters, later threatened to leak a private video. She said Diddy urged her to report the extortion, but she refused out of fear. While the defense cited this as an example of Diddy’s concern, Jane described it as part of a broader pattern of control—financial, emotional, and sexual.