R&B singer Cassie Ventura says she fears for her safety and has relocated her family from New York ahead of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sentencing this week. In a victim impact statement, she wrote she fears “swift retribution” if he is released.
Government Seeks Long Sentence
Ventura’s letter was part of the prosecution’s sentencing recommendation. Combs, convicted in July on two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution, faces an 11-year sentence recommendation, while the defense requests 14 months, which would include time served.
Allegations Reiterated
Ventura, the key witness against Combs, testified for four days that during their 11-year relationship he abused her physically and sexually, forcing her to take part in drug-fueled “freak-off” sex parties. In her letter, she said the experience caused her “tremendous emotional pain” and criticized the jury for not seeing “all of the truths at hand.”
Prosecution Emphasizes Seriousness
Prosecutors highlighted that convictions like Combs’ typically carry sentences over ten years, noting his crimes involved violence and instilling fear. They requested 11 years and three months.
Defense Claims Combs Has Changed
Combs’ attorneys acknowledged past domestic abuse but denied coercion in sexual acts. They argued he has changed while detained, noting his career losses, firing of employees, and time teaching business classes to inmates. Defense filings describe him as “humbled” and focused on family and community.
Ventura Rejects Defense Claims
Ventura dismissed the defense portrayal of Combs as reformed.
“He has no interest in changing or becoming better. He will always be the same cruel, power-hungry, manipulative man that he is,” she wrote.
For more on Combs’ case, tune in to Que Onda Magazine.