Sean "Diddy" Combs and his legal team have intensified their efforts to secure his release from jail, accusing prosecutors of presenting an "altered" video of a 2016 incident involving ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura. The video, which prosecutors argue shows Diddy assaulting Cassie at a Los Angeles hotel, has become a focal point in the case against the hip-hop mogul.
In a New York courtroom on November 22, prosecutors dismissed the defense's claims, insisting that the video is an unedited depiction of the incident. They argued that Diddy, 55, poses a danger to society, pointing to the footage as evidence of his violent tendencies. They also referenced Diddy's public acknowledgment of the video earlier this year.
"It's so difficult to reflect on the darkest times in your life," Diddy said in a May 2023 Instagram video, where he admitted to being "disgusted" by his actions. "I went and I sought out professional help, going to therapy, going to rehab. I had to ask God for his mercy and grace."
Defense Asserts Video Tampering
Diddy's attorneys, however, claim the prosecution used a "manipulated version" of the footage. Alexandra Shapiro, one of Diddy's lawyers, argued in court filings that the video shared by prosecutors omits key moments, misrepresents the sequence of events, and fails to provide an accurate account. "The video the government submitted to the Court omits footage corroborating the defense account," Shapiro stated.
The defense also contends the video portrays a domestic dispute rather than an assault. They have characterized Diddy and Cassie's relationship as a "toxic, loving, 11-year relationship" with "mutually regrettable conduct."
To support their claims, Diddy's team enlisted forensic video analyst Conor McCourt, who compared the government's version of the footage with other recordings provided to the defense. McCourt's analysis reportedly revealed discrepancies, further fueling the defense's request for a new bail hearing.
Despite these efforts, prosecutors remain steadfast in their stance. They allege that Diddy's actions in the video, which include shoving and kicking Cassie, are consistent with the broader charges against him, including sex trafficking and racketeering. Diddy has pleaded not guilty to these charges and denies all allegations of wrongdoing.
Bail Proposal Under Review
Diddy's legal team is pushing for his release on a $50 million bond, offering stringent conditions to ensure compliance. These include 24/7 monitoring by approved security personnel, no internet or phone access except for legal consultations, and pre-approved visitor lists. The proposal also includes the surrender of passports belonging to Diddy and his family and a commitment to home detention at either his Miami estate or another approved location.
Prosecutors have argued that Diddy's release poses a significant risk, citing the severity of the charges and the alleged history of abuse. They maintain that the video serves as compelling evidence of his dangerous behavior.
In November 2023, Cassie settled a civil lawsuit against Diddy, accusing him of sexual assault and abuse. At the time, Diddy's lawyer, Ben Brafman, stated, "The settlement does not in any way indicate that Mr. Combs is guilty of wrongdoing."
For those impacted by sexual assault or human trafficking, resources are available through the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE and the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
