During Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial, a former hotel security supervisor testified that Combs paid $100,000 in cash to suppress surveillance footage showing him assaulting then-girlfriend Cassie Ventura in 2016.
Key Testimony from Hotel Security Supervisor
Eddy Garcia, who worked at the InterContinental Hotel in Los Angeles, recounted the incident in court on June 3. He described the video as depicting Combs, clad only in a towel, violently attacking Ventura—kicking, dragging, and throwing objects at her in the hallway. Garcia stated that after initial refusals, his supervisor agreed to sell the footage to Combs for $50,000. However, Combs ultimately paid $100,000, advising Garcia not to make any noticeable purchases. Garcia received $30,000 of the payment and signed a nondisclosure agreement with a $1 million breach penalty.
Garcia testified that Combs later contacted him on Easter, expressing gratitude by calling him an “angel” and saying, “God put you in my life for a reason.” Combs also inquired whether anyone had asked about the video. Garcia responded that no one had, to which Combs replied positively and requested Garcia to inform him if that changed.
Impact on Trial and Public Reaction
The suppressed footage, which later surfaced and was aired by CNN in 2024, is now a pivotal piece of evidence in the trial. Prosecutors argue that it corroborates Ventura’s claims of being coerced into participating in sex acts organized by Combs. The defense maintains that Ventura consented to these encounters.
Cassie Ventura has publicly addressed the incident, stating, “Domestic Violence is THE issue. It broke me down to someone I never thought I would become.” She added, “With a lot of hard work, I am better today, but I will always be recovering from my past.”
Combs has pleaded not guilty to charges including sex trafficking and racketeering. He faces the possibility of life imprisonment if convicted. The trial continues amid heightened public scrutiny and media attention.