Federal prosecutor floods blue state with warrants to target illegal immigrants
EXCLUSIVE: United States Attorney for the District of California Bill Essayli is taking major action to crack down on “sanctuary” policies in the Golden State.
He’s launching “Operation Guardian Angel,” which is a task force, made up of assets from ICE, HSI, DEA, FBI, ATF, and Border Patrol, to begin scanning a criminal database every single day to identify arrested illegal aliens in local jurisdictions that DOJ can charge with felony illegal-reentry.
“They’ve made it almost impossible for ICE to do their job, issue detainers and get criminal illegal immigrants out of jails. So what we’re doing instead is we’re going to start issuing warrants,” he told Fox News.
‘DEPORTATION FLIGHTS HAVE BEGUN’ AS TRUMP SENDS ‘STRONG AND CLEAR MESSAGE,’ WHITE HOUSE SAYS
“We’re going to flood the system with warrants for criminal illegal immigration that are in county jails, they can ignore a detainer, but they cannot ignore a criminal arrest warrant,” Essayli continued.
“As soon as an illegal immigrant is booked into a county jail, we’re reviewing their file. And if they meet the elements of illegal reentry, which is a federal crime, we are filing a complaint and getting an arrest warrant issued before they’re released from state custody.”
Essayli said that the first-of-its-kind program will make the Golden State a “testing ground” for other sanctuary jurisdictions throughout the country, as the administration aims to get illegal aliens with criminal charges and convictions swiftly out of the United States.
TRUMP GOES TOE-TO-TOE WITH SANCTUARY CITIES OVER DEPORTATION AS ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION CRACKDOWN SET TO BEGIN
While border crossings have plummeted, the administration is aiming to boost the number of removals. The CBP One app was turned into the CBP Home app, where those in the country illegally can now self-deport with a paid-for flight and an $1,000 stipend once they have been confirmed to leave the country.
As for illegal aliens in the criminal justice system, the attorney said they plan to file up to 50 warrants a week in his jurisdiction, which covers Los Angeles – there’s already been 350 filed since Trump took office.
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“They have no choice, they will comply. And if they don’t comply, if they interfere in our ability to arrest a federal felon, they can expect to face consequences for that. So I don’t expect any resistance from the local authorities,” he said.
TRUMP GOES TOE-TO-TOE WITH SANCTUARY CITIES OVER DEPORTATION AS ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION CRACKDOWN SET TO BEGIN
Felony re-entry was largely not prosecuted during the Biden administration. Essayli says his predecessor, the US Attorney in Los Angeles under Biden, only filed 17 of these cases in two years.
The attorney said transferring from local to federal custody is one of the better ways to get hold of illegal aliens with criminal charges.
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“This is the safest way for us to get criminal illegal immigrants. Get them while they’re still in state custody, where they’ve been searched. They have no weapons, and we can do a safe transfer,” he said.
WSJ editorial board blasts Tapper for sneering at 2024 report on Biden decline
The Wall Street Journal editorial board called out CNN host Jake Tapper on Sunday for previously dismissing the paper’s June 2024 article about former President Joe Biden showing “signs of slipping.” The criticism comes as Tapper’s new book on Biden’s decline while in office is set to be released.
“The Wall Street Journal reported, in a detailed piece on June 4, 2024, that those who observed Mr. Biden in person were concerned about his decline. Mr. Tapper quoted a White House dismissal of the story, including a sneer that the Journal is ‘owned by News Corp, which is run by the Murdochs,’ as if that rebutted the story. He then interviewed a Democrat who dismissed it,” the paper’s editorial board wrote, recalling a segment from Tapper’s CNN show, “The Lead,” from last year.
“A more curious journalist would have explored if it were true, and maybe even done some of his own reporting. Only now does he tacitly admit the Journal was right,” the board added.
The Journal reported at the time that the president was showing “signs of slipping,” as its reporters spoke to 45 lawmakers and administration officials about Biden’s mental faculties. Tapper and Axios reporter Alex Thompson’s new book, “Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again,” will be released on Tuesday.
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“The Biden senility coverup is also a media reckoning. Whenever someone dared to point out that Mr. Biden wasn’t up to the job, a praetorian media guard assembled to deny it. We could quote chapter and verse from many media sources, but one example worth citing is none other than Mr. Tapper. Grabien, the TV clip service, has compiled a montage of the CNN host casting doubt on those who cast doubt on Mr. Biden’s mental fitness,” the WSJ editors wrote.
In June 2024, weeks before the debate that exposed Biden’s cognitive decline on the world stage, Tapper addressed the Wall Street Journal’s report, which at the time faced intense backlash from Democrats and the liberal media.
Tapper kept his focus on the White House’s aggressive response to the “false” claims made in the report and repeatedly told viewers the report was “mostly based on observations of Republicans.” He had a top Biden surrogate, Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., on to defend the president and attempt to discredit the reporting as agenda-driven.
CNN’S AXELROD SUGGESTS DISCUSSIONS AROUND BIDEN’S MENTAL ACUITY SHOULD BE SET ASIDE AMID CANCER DIAGNOSIS
A spokesperson for CNN strongly pushed back at the notion that Tapper offered insufficient coverage of the Biden scandal before the debate.
“Jake Tapper is a veteran journalist whose tenacious and thorough reporting has held those in power to account on both sides of the aisle for decades,” the spokesperson told Fox News Digital last week.
“He fairly and accurately covered Senator, Vice President and President Biden through years of dogged Washington reporting, hitting every high and low of the former president’s political career. From the campaign in 2020 to 2024 when he dropped out, Jake raised concerns about President Biden’s mental stamina on his shows, questioned Biden officials directly about his health on air, and consistently encouraged open discussion and debate on the issue.”
“Despite bad faith allegations otherwise, the record clearly shows Jake covered the Clooney op-ed, the Hur report, and Biden physical limitations. As noted, Jake also covered Biden’s physical falls multiple times, and he happened to be on assignment in Chicago off air the day after his bike fall in June 2022,” the spokesperson added.
Regarding the WSJ editorial, on Monday CNN directed Fox News Digital to a Friday social media post by the network’s communications team suggesting the Grabien video montage cited by the Journal took Tapper’s comments out of context. The X post read in part: “This video is disingenuously edited to create a misleading narrative. The clips are maliciously cut to omit context and make comments made by others appear as though they are Jake’s own.”
The Journal called out the Democratic Party as well, as some leaders admit the president shouldn’t have run for re-election, and others insist on looking forward.
“The coverup of Mr. Biden’s mental decline will go down as one of the great scandals of modern politics. By refusing to admit what voters could so clearly see, Democrats denied their party an open primary. Once Mr. Biden imploded, they handed Kamala Harris the nomination without debate,” the editors wrote.
“Democrats and the press are now appalled by Mr. Trump’s second term. They would do better to think upon, and seek contrition for, their own role in making it possible,” they continued.
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Biden was diagnosed with an “aggressive” form of prostate cancer on Friday, according to the former president’s office. The diagnosis was revealed to the public on Sunday.
The Journal editorial board included an editor’s note at the top of the article acknowledging the former president’s cancer diagnosis that reads, “This editorial was published before news broke of President Biden’s cancer diagnosis. We wish him God speed on his recovery.”
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Michigan student killed after gunman fires through floor at house party
A Michigan college student was killed in an “intentional” shooting when multiple gunshots were fired along the floor during a house party, police said.
Connor Lotterman, 19, was struck in the head by a bullet recklessly fired by an unidentified 20-year-old suspect on May 9 at approximately 11:11 p.m., Ottowa County Sheriff’s Office confirmed to Fox News Digital.
“The shooting was quite intentional,” Ottowa County Sheriff’s Office Capt. Jake Sparks told WOOD-TV. “Multiple rounds were fired. It wasn’t like as if it were a one-shot accidental discharge. This was numerous rounds discharged. Although the result of the shooting led to an accidental death, this shooting was intentional.”
TWO TEENS KILLED IN MASS SHOOTING AT WASHINGTON STATE HOUSE PARTY, SEVERAL OTHERS WOUNDED: POLICE
The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Department revealed that the 20-year-old male suspect obtained a firearm that was located in the residence. The male suspect then fired multiple rounds through the floor of an upstairs bedroom, police said. The bullets penetrated the floor and one struck Lotterman in the head.
Lotterman, an engineering student at Grand Valley State University (GVSU), was transported to the local hospital in critical condition.
Dr. Stephen Cohle, the Kent County medical examiner, confirmed to Fox News Digital that the manner of death was accidental, caused by a gunshot wound to the head.
Alcohol is suspected to be a factor in the incident, police said.
All individuals involved in the incident were known to each other, police said.
SHOOTING AT POP-UP PARTY IN HOUSTON LEAVES 2 TEENAGERS DEAD, OTHERS WOUNDED: POLICE
Investigators are working with the Ottawa County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for a review of any potential criminal charges against the 20-year-old male. Police said his name would not be released at this time.
Sheriff’s detectives continue to investigate and anyone with information is asked to contact the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office or Silent Observer at 1-877-88-SILENT (745368) or mosotips.com.
Lotterman was the youngest of five, according to an online obituary. His older sister mourned him in a birthday message posted on Instagram.
“Thank you for being the best little brother a girl could ask for,” Marielle Lotterman wrote. “I am so thankful to God for the 20 amazing years you had on this earth. What a day that will be when we all unite in heaven.”
Aaron Haight, GVSU dean of students, told Fox News Digital that the college community is “saddened by Connor’s tragic death.”
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“On behalf of President Mantella, the Laker community extends our deepest sympathies to his family and friends,” he said. “Students may utilize the Care referral process and the University Counseling Center for support and resources during this difficult time. Faculty and staff can access mental health services via the Employee Assistance Program.”
Iranian leader makes surprising statement on nuclear talks with US
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian spoke over the weekend, reiterating Iran’s commitment to dialogue and desire for a civilian nuclear program.
The Iranian leader addressed navy officials in Bandar Abbas, discussing the ongoing negotiations for a deal with the United States.
“We are not seeking war, we favor negotiation and dialogue, but we are not afraid of threats either, and we will in no way retreat from our legal rights,” Pezeshkian said.
IRAN FOREIGN MINISTER VOWS NUCLEAR ENRICHMENT WILL CONTINUE ‘WITH OR WITHOUT A DEAL’
Compared to previous Iranian presidents, Pezeshkian has emerged as a more level-headed and reformist leader, aiming to reach new understandings with the West, according to Politico.
The United States and Iran have completed four rounds of indirect negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear program, though the public has received mixed messages on the path forward. While officials from Washington and Tehran have expressed optimism about the conversations, a number of technical details have yet to be discussed, including the specifics surrounding uranium enrichment and stockpile levels.
Iran is insisting they will continue to enrich uranium for civilian and research purposes, while the Trump administration is calling for all enrichment to end. Right now, Iran is enriching uranium to up to 60% purity, well beyond the confines of the 2015 nuclear deal that President Donald Trump withdrew from in 2018.
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Over the weekend, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi commented on the current situation, saying that Iran has received no written proposal from the United States about an agreement.
“Mark my words: there is no scenario in which Iran abandons its hard-earned right to enrichment for peaceful purposes: a right afforded to all other NPT signatories, too,” Ataghchi said in a post on X.
In an interview with Fox News, Trump spoke about the ongoing talks with Iran, opening up the possibility of trade with the country, if the talks lead to a deal.
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“Iran wants to trade with us,” Trump told Bret Baier. “And I’m OK with it.”
Trump wrapped up a four-day tour of the Gulf last week, pushing for new normalization deals and an agreement with Iran. Any deal with the United States is expected to lead to much-needed sanctions relief for Iran.
“I’ve told Iran, we make a deal,” Trump said, “you’re going to be very happy.”
SCOTUS allows Trump to move ahead with ending protected legal status for some migrants
The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to lift a lower court injunction that blocked President Donald Trump’s decision to terminate the protected legal status of hundreds of thousands of migrants living in the U.S., in a win for the administration as it looks to deliver on its hard-line immigration enforcement policies.
The decision clears the way for the Trump administration to move forward with its plans to terminate Biden-era Temporary Protected Status (TPS) protections for roughly 300,000 Venezuelan migrants living in the U.S. and allows the administration to move forward with plans to immediately remove these migrants, which lawyers for the administration argued they should be able to do.
U.S. Solicitor General John Sauer argued as much when he asked the Supreme Court to lift the injunction this month, arguing in an emergency appeal that a lower court judge had overstepped their authority by blocking the administration from ending the program for certain Venezuelans.
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“The district court’s reasoning is untenable,” Sauer told the high court, adding that the program “implicates particularly discretionary, sensitive, and foreign-policy-laden judgments of the Executive Branch regarding immigration policy.”
At issue was the TPS program, which allows people from certain countries to live and work in the U.S. legally if they cannot work safely in their home country due to a disaster, armed conflict or other “extraordinary and temporary conditions.”
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The protections were extended during the end of the Biden administration, shortly before Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in February abruptly terminated the program for a specific group of Venezuelan nationals, arguing they were not in the national interest.
In March, U.S. District Judge Edward Chen of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California agreed to keep the protections in place, siding with plaintiffs from the National TPS Alliance in ruling that the termination of the TPS program, which is extended in 18-month increments, is “unprecedented” and suggested that the abrupt termination may have been “predicated on negative stereotypes” about Venezuelan migrants.
Sauer disputed this in the appeal to the Supreme Court. In it, he also accused the lower court judge of improperly intruding on the executive branch’s authority over immigration policy.
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“Forceful condemnations of gang violence and broad questioning of the integrity of the prior administration’s immigration practices, including potential abuses of the TPS program, do not evince discriminatory intent,” Sauer said, describing Chen’s descriptions as “cherry-picked” and “wrongly portrayed” as “racially tinged.”
Hillary Clinton has advice for female GOP leaders and it’s not pretty
Hillary Clinton took a swipe at female Republicans in an interview earlier this month, saying they would all be servants of “the patriarchy” if they became president.
“Well, first of all, don’t be a handmaiden to the patriarchy, which kind of eliminates every woman on the other side of the aisle, except for very few,” Clinton said during a May 1 discussion at New York City’s 92nd Street Y when asked by moderator Margaret Hoover what advice she had for the first female President of the United States.
Several women, including former Trump UN ambassador Nikki Haley last year, have contended for the presidency in recent election cycles. In the 2024 presidential election, former Vice President Kamala Harris took over the Democratic nomination from former President Joe Biden. Like Clinton in 2016, she was defeated at the hands of President Donald Trump.
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Clinton pointed to Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski as one of the “few” women in the Republican Party she respected. Murkowski has been a strong critic of Trump at times, including when she voted to convict him during his second impeachment trial in 2021.
Clinton responded affirmatively when Hoover mentioned former GOP Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney, who endorsed Biden – and then Harris – in 2024 and helped lead the January 6 House committee investigation against Trump.
“Yeah, there’s a few,” Clinton said in the clip flagged by The Daily Caller. The interview was recorded on May 1 and posted last week.
Clinton also memorably leveled an insult at many Trump supporters during her failed 2016 run, saying half of his backers belonged in a “basket of deplorables.” After she lost, she suggested White women voted against her at the direction of their husbands.
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Clinton also recalled her support for Harris during the 2024 campaign, suggesting that it will take time to elect a female president.
“Look, first we have to get there, and it is, you know, obviously so much harder than it should be,” Clinton said. “So, you know, if a woman runs who I think would be a good president — as I thought Kamala Harris would be, and as I knew I would be, I will support that woman.”
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CBS News President Wendy McMahon resigns amid legal battle with Trump
CBS News President and CEO Wendy McMahon announced Monday she was stepping down in another stunning move for the embattled company, Fox News Digital has confirmed.
Her exit follows that of longtime “60 Minutes” producer Bill Owens, who quit last month because he felt he’d lost journalistic independence amid an ongoing legal battle with President Donald Trump.
“Today, I am stepping down from my position as president and CEO of CBS News and Stations and CBS Media Ventures. It has been one of the most meaningful chapters in my career. Leading this extraordinary organization has been the honor of a lifetime because I got to work alongside all of you,” McMahon wrote in a memo to staffers.
“At the same time, the past few months have been challenging,” she continued. “It’s become clear that the company and I do not agree on the path forward. It’s time for me to move on and for this organization to move forward with new leadership.”
FAIR ELECTION FUND URGES FCC TO HOLD CBS ACCOUNTABLE FOR ‘UNLAWFUL CONDUCT’ RELATED TO ’60 MINUTES’ INTERVIEW
McMahon’s departure comes as CBS parent company Paramount Global is in mediation with Trump’s legal team, with hopes of settling a $20 billion lawsuit against CBS over its handling of a “60 Minutes” interview last year with then-Vice President Kamala Harris.
Trump has accused CBS of aiding his 2024 Democratic opponent through deceptive editing just weeks before the presidential election.
Many believe Paramount Global is hoping to settle the suit ahead of a planned merger with Skydance Media in hopes of preventing potential retribution by Trump’s FCC, which has the authority to halt the multibillion-dollar transaction. Shari Redstone, Paramount’s controlling shareholder, is reportedly in favor of settling with the president.
TRUMP, CBS PARENT COMPANY SET FOR MEDIATION IN $20 BILLION ‘60 MINUTES’ LAWSUIT
Many media observers and CBS News staffers don’t want CBS to settle the suit, which critics have called a hyperbolic reaction to a typical editing decision.
Last month, Owens abruptly quit, saying it had “become clear” he was no longer able to run the program the way he wanted.
McMahon, who follows Owens out the door, told staffers she has spent the “last few months shoring up our businesses and making sure the right leaders are in place” at CBS News.
“I have no doubt they will continue to set the standard,” she wrote. “To our viewers: Thank you for your trust. You hold us accountable, and you remind is why this matters.”
A CBS News staffer told Fox News Digital that McMahon took part in the network’s editorial call on Monday morning and didn’t mention her looming resignation.
CBS News did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
McMahon was previously president of the ABC Owned Television Stations.
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Diddy’s former personal assistant warned Cassie, told her to get out
Sean “Diddy” Combs’
former personal assistant claimed he told Cassie Ventura to leave the rapper in the early days of their relationship.
David James, who worked as Combs’ personal assistant from 2007 until 2009, confirmed Diddy had multiple girlfriends. When he first started working for the now-disgraced music mogul, James said Kim Porter was Diddy’s main girlfriend and others included Cassie plus women named Tara and Sarah.
James testified he first met Cassie when she came down for a weekend to be with Diddy. Combs rented out a yacht and they all allegedly went to dinner and partied. James testified that Combs was really trying to impress Cassie.
While on the stand, James recalled two conversations he had with Cassie. James remembered sitting on the dock smoking cigarettes with Cassie and her friend, Kerry Morgan. He recalled Cassie saying, “Man this lifestyle is crazy.”
According to James, he told Cassie to get out. Cassie allegedly said she couldn’t because Combs controlled so much of her life.
James testified he also overheard a convo while in the car with Diddy in NYC. A business associate of Combs’ asked about Porter and Cassie. He claimed Diddy replied, “Cassie is good…I’ve got her right where I want her…”
The former personal assistant claimed he witnessed disagreements between Cassie and Diddy about the singer’s professional career, including her aspirations of getting into modeling and acting.
James took the stand after Cassie’s former friend testified Monday in the sex-trafficking trial. Kerry Morgan claimed Diddy physically assaulted her in 2018, leading to the end of her friendship with the “Me & U” singer. Diddy’s lawyer questioned Morgan about why that would break up her friendship with Cassie. Morgan replied, “I draw my line at physical abuse.” According to Morgan’s testimony, she and Cassie have not spoken in seven years.
Morgan cut off contact after Cassie offered her $30K to sign a NDA about Diddy’s alleged abuse.
Before Morgan took the stand, the jury heard continued testimony from former Danity Kane singer Dawn Richard. The musician confirmed she believed Diddy ruined her career after disbanding both
Danity Kane and Diddy – Dirty Money.
Diddy would threaten Dawn Richard for intervening his relationship with Cassie Ventura, she testified Monday. Richard claimed she told Cassie that she should leave Diddy after witnessing the rapper’s alleged violent behavior towards his girlfriend. According to Richard, Cassie was torn. The singer testified that Cassie would listen, but she could see the fear.
On Friday, Richard testified she witnessed Diddy attempt to hit Cassie over the head with a frying pan full of eggs. The “Last Night” rapper allegedly threatened Richard’s life the next day, warning her not to tell anyone.
Diddy’s sex-trafficking trial will resume Tuesday with James’ continued testimony.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Additional evidence submitted by the government in the Sean “Diddy” Combs federal trial showed images of bags of baby oil.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office included multiple images of items recovered from Diddy’s hotel room at the Park Hyatt when he was
arrested in New York on Sept. 16.
HSI special agent Yasin Binda testified in court Friday that detectives allegedly discovered a number of supplies frequently used in “freak off” sessions.
Binda told Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson that one Ziploc bag with Johnson’s baby oil and another bag with AstroGlide was recovered from Diddy’s hotel room.
A lighting device used for “potentially mood lighting” was also discovered. Binda claimed that agents found “several bottles of baby oil in the bathroom,” and another “five bottles” were found in the bathtub.
The government also included images of a pink powder substance found in small baggies.
Fox News Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office included new evidence of injuries Cassie Ventura allegedly sustained while she was in a relationship with Sean “Diddy” Combs.
One image submitted by the government showed the singer with a gash across her eyebrow.
Cassie finished testifying last week as “Victim 1” after
four days on the stand. She recalled the Intercontinental Hotel incident in March 2016, and alleged Diddy was often abusive.
After the jury was shown screenshots from the alleged “freak offs,” Cassie claimed that it had become common for Diddy to become “physical” with her.
She defined “physical” as punishment, beatings, kicking, etc. Cassie claimed Combs’ security was present and aware of the rapper getting physical with her at times. Additionally, Cassie testified that Diddy’s driver in New York City knew about the abuse.
Dawn Richard, a former member of Diddy’s girl group, testified to witnessing Diddy hitting Cassie during an alleged altercation in 2019.
The singer said she “observed Cassie being attacked.” She alleged that Diddy came down stairs screaming, hit her in the head and beat her around.
Richard claimed Diddy “came downstairs angry saying where the f— is his eggs.” She then alleged Diddy grabbed a skillet of eggs and attempted to hit Cassie in the head.
Cassie allegedly fell to the ground anticipating the hit, but it didn’t hit her. “She went into a fetal position … literally trying to hide her face,” Richard said.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ former personal assistant claimed the rapper went through a lot of other assistants while he was working for him between 2007 and 2009.
While on the stand, David James shared what his typical day working for Diddy looked like.
He told the jury his responsibilities included making sure Combs was able to operate the company, a lot of organization of personal items and traveling.
James testified he would have to arrive at Diddy’s home before the rapper woke up, set up the day, have his business schedule laid out, a folder of press clippings, turn on the TV to his favorite channel and have the chef get breakfast going.
After Diddy woke up, he would eat and James would call security to let them know the rapper was getting ready to leave. He would go to meetings, dinners and the studio with the music mogul.
James claimed it was important he didn’t leave Combs’ side until he was given a call time. The former personal assistant was working from 30 mins before Diddy woke up until the call time.
He confirmed his starting salary was $70K and that he was paid overtime.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Cassie Ventura’s former friend
Kerry Morgan was dismissed after prosecutors asked her a few questions during re-direct.
Afterwards, David James took the stand. James worked as Diddy’s personal assistant from May 2007 until May 2009.
He confirmed he is there to testify because he was subpoenaed.
After attending college at Michigan State, he went on to become an executive assistant.
James initially wanted to pursue a career in fashion and applied for Combs’ assistant position. He testified the Interview was in New York and 15 others applied for the job.
During the interview, he met with an executive of Bad Boy Records. She told James during the interview that “we’re all here to serve [Diddy.]”
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Kerry Morgan believed Cassie Ventura’s relationship with Sean “Diddy” Combs was volatile.
During cross-examination with Diddy’s lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, Morgan admitted she thought Cassie should break up with Diddy.
She also admitted there were times she thought the Bad Boy Records founder and Cassie were in love, and very much loved each other.
Morgan, 38, noted that Diddy was a flawed person.
Earlier in the day, Morgan claimed that Diddy once assaulted her at Cassie’s home in 2018.
They were allegedly listening to music when Diddy walked into the room. Cassie allegedly proceeded to lock herself in the bathroom.
“He came up behind me, choked me,” Morgan claimed before Diddy allegedly threw a hanger at her head which hit her right behind her ear. She allegedly suffered a concussion from the incident and was treated at an urgent care.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Kerry Morgan explained why her friendship with Cassie Ventura ended in 2018 during Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sex-trafficking trial.
Defense attorney Marc Agnifilo asked Morgan about how she has not been speaking to Cassie since she was allegedly assault by Diddy. The former friend of Cassie confirmed the two have not spoken in seven years.
Morgan explained she stopped speaking to Cassie because the singer-songwriter “was not supportive to me after that incident.”
Angifilo then pressed Morgan about why that would break up the friendship. Morgan replied, “I draw my line at physical abuse.” According to Morgan’s testimony, Cassie has not reached out to her either since that moment.
Agnifilo then brought up the money Morgan received from Diddy. Morgan claimed the money was not coming from Cassie. She told the jury, “I didn’t demand money from anyone.” According to Morgan, Cassie offered her money to sign an NDA. Morgan claimed she got $30K. Agnifilo asked if it was $50K. However, Morgan confirmed she only got $30K.
Morgan testified that she does not know why Cassie hasn’t reached out to her. The two haven’t spoken since Cassie offered her $30K if she signed the NDA.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Sean “Diddy” Combs allegedly got another woman pregnant while dating Cassie Ventura, according to the singer’s former friend.
Kerry Morgan brought up the alleged other woman during cross-examination. Diddy’s lawyer Marc Agnifilo asked if Gina was a source of jealousy and worry for Cassie. Morgan testified, “She was a big problem.”
Morgan claimed that Diddy was having a relationship with Gina. According to her testimony, Morgan and Cassie referred to Gina as a little girl because she acted like one. Morgan confirmed Cassie was hurt by Diddy’s relationship with Gina.
“I’m pretty sure she got pregnant, that Gina girl,” Morgan told the jury during cross-examination.
Cassie previously testified about Gina during her four days on the stand.
The now 38-year-old musician explained she called things off with Diddy in 2018 after she found out that he was still allegedly seeing Gina. Combs and Gina supposedly began an on-and-off again romance in April 2014.
Cassie had also moved on in 2018 and had begun seeing her now-husband, Alex Fine. However, she testified that contact between her and Diddy did not end after the break up. Cassie said, “There was no ceasing of all contact, but the relationship was over.” She confirmed she did continue to communicate with Diddy after telling him the relationship was over.
Another message was shown where Cassie wrote, “That last shot was the nail in the coffin…she never went away…” Cassie said she believes she was referencing Gina. “I promised myself I wouldn’t be with you anymore if you did that again,” a message from Cassie to Combs read.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Kerry Morgan testified that law enforcement officials were called to Cassie Ventura’s apartment, following the hotel incident involving Sean “Diddy” Combs.
Morgan claimed neither she nor Cassie called the police, but that they came to the apartment because of the noise. Morgan said Cassie had a noticeable black eye.
Upon arrival, police allegedly asked for identification and asked Cassie what happened, but she didn’t respond. She also did not provide her license, and the police allegedly didn’t do anything to determine her identity.
Morgan claimed law enforcement officials were in the home for approximately 15 minutes.
Cassie previously testified that she went to the Intercontinental Hotel because Diddy had requested a “freak off,” days before her movie premiere on March 7, 2016.
Diddy allegedly arrived at Cassie’s home about 30 minutes later. “He was hitting the door with a hammer…” Morgan testified. She admitted she was “terrified.”
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Kerry Morgan confirmed that Cassie Ventura did talk to Michael B. Jordan right before heading to South Africa for a movie shoot during cross-examination Monday.
Morgan told Sean “Diddy” Combs’ defense lawyer that Cassie was not with Combs at this time.
Marc Agnifilo, Diddy’s attorney, asked Morgan about the relationship between Cassie and Jordan. Morgan testified that she does not know much, just that they were speaking at the time. She emphasized that Cassie was not with Diddy at this time, but the rapper was allegedly jealous.
Morgan claimed she and Cassie were not using controlled substances while in South Africa.
Fox News Digital reached out to a representative for Michael B. Jordan for comment.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Cassie Ventura’s former friend, Kerry Morgan, testified Monday that Sean “Diddy” Combs was “quite jealous” of other rappers.
Morgan, 38, told the court that Cassie worked with French Montana, Too Short and Kid Cudi during her career.
She claimed that Diddy’s jealousy would stress her if she was involved.
The federal criminal trial against
Diddy for sex crimes has taken Hollywood by storm, with many big actors and musicians being brought up in court.
It started during jury selection when prospective jurors were given a list of celebrity names during the voir dire process and asked if they recognized any of them.
The celebrity names on the list included Mike Myers, Diddy’s children – Justin and Christian Combs – Aubrey O’Day, actress Lauren London, actor Michael B. Jordan, Cudi, Kanye West, singer Michelle Williams, Dawn Richards and Cassie Ventura.
While it’s unclear why some of the celebrities made this list, USA Today reported there is a scene in Myers’ “Austin Powers” that jokes about the disgraced rapper.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ ex Kim Porter made Cassie Ventura jealous, the singer’s former friend testified.
Diddy’s main defense lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, began cross-examination of Cassie’s friend Kerry Morgan after lunch wrapped up. Agnifilo asked Morgan if Cassie was jealous of Diddy’s ex Kim Porter.
“I’m sure…she could never live up to the New Year’s Eve parties.”
Cassie herself testified that she was hurt after Diddy said Porter was his soulmate. After Porter died unexpectedly on Nov. 5, 2018, Cassie attended the memorial.
Diddy’s defense showed the jury a text Cassie wrote to Combs afterwards.
On Nov. 19, 2018, Cassie wrote, “I didn’t just leave you…said good bye. I wanted to be there for you…I need to be real with you…you compared me to Gina the other day…you posted that Kim was your soulmate…what was the 11 years all about?…I know you’re going through a lot right now, but that really hurt me…”
Cassie confirmed during her testimony that she was hurt after Porter’s memorial.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Judge Arun Subramanian is the judge presiding over the federal trial against rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs for allegations of sex crimes.
Subramanian was the first Indian-American to serve as the District Judge for the Southern District of New York, with the United States Senate confirming his position in March 2023.
He earned his law degree in 2004 from Columbia Law School and went on to work as a law clerk for many famous names, including Supreme Court Justice, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, for many years. He landed a position at Susman Godfrey LLP in 2007, and eventually worked his way up to partner.
Subramanian was assigned to oversee Diddy’s case in October 2024, taking over the case from Judge Andrew Carter.
Prior to the start of the trial, Subramanian denied Diddy’s request for bail. The rapper is currently being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York, where he has been since his arrest on September 16, 2024.
Kerry Morgan, Cassie Ventura’s former friend, was seen Monday entering the Daniel Patrick Moynihan United States Courthouse in Manhattan.
Morgan, 38, was called to testified on behalf of the government in the Sean “Diddy” Combs federal trial for sex crimes. She was pictured wearing a khaki colored blouse and dark sunglasses.
Diddy’s team objected to testimony Morgan gave on the stand about an alleged conversation between Morgan and Cassie. The government claimed Morgan would testify about specific memories from a hotel.
Judge Arun Subramanian said he would allow the testimony and also allow Diddy’s legal team the right to call Cassie back to the stand.
Prosecutors said it was unlikely Cassie would be available for a recall due to her medical condition. Cassie is pregnant with her third child with Alex Fine.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ ex Misa Hylton explained her presence at the rapper’s federal trial last week.
Hylton, who appeared at the Manhattan courthouse with a walker, told her Instagram followers she was there to support her and Diddy’s son – Justin Combs.
“When I suffered my injury I had chosen to heal privately but when my son said ‘Mommy I need you’ I was right there for him walker and all,” she wrote Saturday on Instagram. “I’m a MOTHER FIRST, FOR REAL and I am my son’s strength and thats just what it is. Plain and Simple. Whoever doesn’t understand that just simply isn’t in alignment with me or anything that I’m about in life. I’m cool with that. I have a purpose filled life that I live daily. I make impact. I’m not concerned with insecure people attempting to project their insecurities on to me. EVER.”
“Let’s start being real people who do real things again,” she added. “Don’t let this app rule your life I promise you it’s really not good for you. Every moment isn’t a glamour moment, your best highlight reel, some moments are as down to the bone as you could ever in your life imagine. Layered and complex. To all of my temporarily disabled and disabled people, don’t ever be ashamed of your condition or the need to use the medical tools created to assist in your healing or the way you need to move around in this world.”
Hylton concluded: “If you have God in your heart, pray for us all. Be kind, use critical thinking and hold your head high.”
The fashion designer’s son with Diddy, Justin Combs, attended his father’s trial throughout last week.
Kerry Morgan testified on behalf of the government Monday in the Sean “Diddy” Combs federal trial for sex crimes.
Morgan, 38, claimed the “All About the Benjamins” rapper assaulted her at Cassie Ventura’s home in 2018.
They were allegedly listening to music when Diddy walked into the room. Cassie allegedly proceeded to lock herself in the bathroom.
“He came up behind me, choked me,” Morgan said before Diddy allegedly threw a hanger at her head which hit her right behind her ear.
Morgan claimed Diddy wanted to know who Cassie was cheating on him with. She also claimed to have a brief conversation with Diddy’s old assistant, Ryan, and said Diddy had lost it.
Morgan allegedly had a concussion from the incident and was treated at an urgent care.
Following the alleged assault, Morgan had legal counsel reach out to Diddy because she was debating filing a lawsuit against the
Bad Boy Records founder. She didn’t file, but allegedly received a $30,000 payout from Diddy.
Cassie and Morgan then met at a pizza place where she told Morgan she was “milking it” for the money and gave Morgan an NDA (non-disclosure agreement.) That was the last time Morgan allegedly spoke with Cassie.
The last time Morgan allegedly spoke with Diddy was the night of the assault.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Kerry Morgan claimed Cassie Ventura never told her why she was at the Intercontinental Hotel with Diddy on March 5, 2016.
Diddy and Cassie allegedly had a “freak off” at the Intercontinental Hotel on March 5, 2016 that turned violent. Cassie previously testified that she was attempting to leave the “freak off” after Diddy gave her a black eye.
Prosecutors asked Morgan if she every spoke to Cassie about her relationship with Sean “Diddy” Combs.
She claimed she did, telling her that she should leave the “Last Night” rapper. Cassie claimed she couldn’t because Diddy controlled everything from her homes to her cars and more.
Morgan said she encouraged Cassie to talk to law enforcement officials about the hotel incident. Morgan hadn’t called the police before because Cassie didn’t want her to.
Fox News Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Cassie’s former friend Kerry Morgan testified about the March 5, 2016 assault on the singer by Sean “Diddy” Combs.
At the time, Morgan was staying at Cassie’s home ahead of the movie premiere. Cassie previously testified that she went to the Intercontinental Hotel because Diddy had requested a “freak off,” days before her movie premiere on March 7, 2016.
Morgan testified that when Cassie arrived home from the hotel, she had her hoodie over her head. When Cassie pulled the hoodie back, she had a black eye, according to Morgan.
Diddy allegedly arrived at Cassie’s home about 30 minutes later. “He was hitting the door with a hammer…” Morgan testified. She admitted she was “terrified.”
She described Cassie as appearing “numb” while just sitting on the couch. Morgan testified that she called KK and Diddy’s security guard D-Roc. Diddy eventually left, she claimed.
Morgan said the police did come, but Cassie would not provide her ID or tell them anything.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Kerry Morgan told prosecutors she witnessed Sean “Diddy” Combs assault Cassie Ventura while on vacation in Jamaica in 2013.
Morgan, 38, said she was in the bar area when she allegedly heard Cassie screaming. The singer had gone to the bathroom and Diddy allegedly told her she was taking too long to get ready.
Morgan then went to the hallway and claimed to witness Diddy dragging Cassie by her hair. She then testified to witnessing the “Victory” rapper push Cassie to the ground and hit her head.
Cassie allegedly fell on her side in a loose fetal position with her eyes closed and “didn’t move” for upwards of 20-30 seconds.
“I thought she was knocked out,” Morgan testified. Cassie then allegedly ran off, and Morgan went searching for her with Diddy in a golf cart.
They eventually found her hiding in a ditch. Morgan claimed the search “felt like hours.”
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Cassie Ventura’s former friend Kerry Morgan testified that the two once hid from Sean “Diddy” Combs after one of his alleged violent outbursts.
Morgan testified that Diddy would often call her looking for Cassie. “Sometimes he would call 50 times in a row…” the personal assistant said on the stand.
Morgan claimed that she witnessed Diddy assault Cassie twice and described the violence as hitting, kicking or pulling the singer. One assault allegedly took place in Los Angeles.
The first assault Morgan claimed she witnessed occurred at Combs’ home in Los Angeles. Combs, Cassie, Morgan, and Ruben – one of Diddy’s security guards, were all present, according to her testimony.
Morgan described the assault, “I saw him push her…” She said they were on the other side of the bed. Morgan continued saying that she was upset and told Ruben, “do something.” Ruben allegedly responded that he wasn’t going to do anything.
Morgan said after the assault, she and Cassie left the house and hid by the neighbor’s concrete steps. She testified that the two hid for 20 to 30 minutes.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Cassie Ventura’s former friend Kerry Morgan testified that Diddy once assaulted her.
Morgan is 38, from Buffalo and works as a personal assistant. From 2001 until 2018, Morgan was best friends with Cassie.
Morgan began her testimony by telling the jury that Diddy assaulted her in 2018.
The now 38-year-old claimed she is only testifying because she was subpoenaed. According to Morgan, she didn’t want to testify because “I have moved on with my life…”
Cassie and Morgan met when they started modeling. The two lived together in Manhattan. She testified that Cassie was very confident. Morgan claimed Cassie didn’t drink much and didn’t use drugs when the two first met.
When Morgan learned Cassie was dating Combs, she would often spend time with them. The trio traveled to Ibizia, Italy, Vegas and more, according to Morgan.
Morgan admitted when she hung out with Cassie and Diddy, drugs were involved and provided by Combs. They would allegedly use drugs when going out to parties and clubs. Morgan also claimed she would do drugs with Cassie alone.
Cassie Ventura’s former best friend, Kerry Morgan, testified Monday about her relationship with the singer, which began in 2001.
Morgan told the court that when she first got to know Sean “Diddy” Combs, he was nice and generous. Further into the relationship, she realized he had “mood swings” and could get aggressive.
Morgan said that Cassie “lost her confidence big time” after she began dating the Bad Boy Records founder.
She said she would hear Diddy criticizing and talking down to Cassie about her looks and how she behaved.
Diddy allegedly “would call 50 times in a row” in search of Cassie.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Dawn Richard admitted she was willing to work with Sean “Diddy” Combs again even after he allegedly threatened her life.
Diddy’s defense lawyer, Nicole Westmoreland, asked Richard about reaching out to Combs as recently as 2020 or 2021. Richard testified if they got Diddy – Dirty Money back together this would require her to be around Combs often – working, writing, touring, traveling out of state and out of the country. Richard told the defense lawyer that she was willing to work with Diddy again even though he allegedly made death threats.
Richard told Assistant U.S. Attorney Mitzi Steiner that she reached out to Combs to work with him after ending their professional relationship because Kalenna Harper requested it.
Richard explained contact was sporadic but she wanted to get Diddy – Dirty Money back together because of the issues Harper was allegedly having. According to Richard, she didn’t want to go back to work with Diddy because “it wasn’t good.” She claimed she just wanted to help a friend.
Diddy – Dirty Money disbanded in 2012. The trio briefly reunited for Diddy’s 2023 album, “The Love Album: Off the Grid.”
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Former Danity Kane singer Dawn Richards claimed she has no doubt that Sean “Diddy” Combs threatened her to keep quiet about his alleged abuse of Cassie Ventura.
Assistant U.S. attorney Mitzi Steiner asked Richard how long ago the incident with the frying pan was during the redirect. Richard said she’s not good at math. The musician had testified during direct examination that she witnessed
Diddy attempt to strike Cassie over the head with a frying pan and that Diddy had threatened her to keep quiet the next day.
During the redirect, Steiner asked if Richard had any doubt that Diddy attempted to strike Cassie, that Cassie dropped to the floor in the fetal position, Combs dragged Cassie upstairs, Richard heard yelling, and that the following day, the rapper threatened her to keep quiet.
Richard said no, that she has no doubt.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Dawn Richard testified that she believes Sean “Diddy” Combs ruined her career.
During cross-examination, defense lawyer Nicole Westmoreland asked Richard about Danity Kane and Diddy – Dirty Money. Richard explained both groups sold a lot of records.
Richard confirms that in later years, she asked Combs to sign her as a solo artist. She also admitted she reached out to Diddy as recently as 2020 or 2021.
The singer agreed with Westmoreland that Diddy had no reason to dismantle her previous groups and said she was “saddened by it.” Richard testified that she believes Diddy ruined her career.
Richard was a part of Diddy – Dirty Money, which featured the singer, Combs and Kalenna Harper.
The now 41-year-old was also a part of Danity Kane. The group, which was formed by Diddy on “Making the Band,” featured Richard along with Aubrey O’Day, D. Woods, Shannon Bex and Aundrea Fimbres.
Dainty Kane initially split in 2009, but later reunited for a year in 2013.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ defense claimed the former Danity Kane singer’s testimony had changed.
Dawn Richard testified during direct examination that she observed Diddy using drugs. According to Richard, Diddy would use various drugs including weed, ketamine, cocaine and molly often at the studio or his house. However, Richard claimed she never saw him take opiates.
Richard testified that Combs stored the drugs in his Louis Vuitton bag. Richard admitted she only smoked weed, but she claimed she saw Diddy give Cassie drugs.
During cross-examination, Diddy’s lawyer, Nicole Westmoreland, asked about the rapper’s drug use. Westmoreland specifically asked about using cocaine. Richard said she doesn’t recall telling the government she never saw Combs do cocaine.
Westmoreland accused Richard of changing her story. Richard responded that as time progresses, she is remembering more.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Dawn Richard testified that she saw Sean “Diddy” Combs with guns, but never saw him pull one out.
During Richard’s direct examination she claimed she saw Diddy with a hand gun a few times in 2009 or 2010 when the singer was a part of Diddy – Dirty Money. Richard and Combs were joined by Kalenna Harper to complete the musical trio at the time. Richard added that she had also seen Diddy with a gun while in a club after working at the studio. According to the singer, D-Roc and Bond also carried guns.
Diddy’s defense lawyer, Nicole Westmoreland, asked about Richard seeing Diddy with a gun during cross-examination. The lawyer asked for specifics. Richard claimed she saw Combs with a gun at the studio in New York. Westmoreland asked why specific details weren’t given to prosecutors. Richard claimed she didn’t give specifics because prosecutors didn’t ask.
Westmoreland asked Richard if she ever saw Combs pull a gun out. Richard said no.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
As Sean “Diddy” Combs’ trial continued Monday, more celebrities were mentioned during Dawn Richard’s testimony.
Diddy’s lawyer asked Richard about an incident that occurred in 2010 at dinner. Richard had testified about the incident that occurred at a restaurant in West Hollywood during direct examination. She claimed that she witnessed Diddy and Cassie “secretly arguing” and that Harve Pierre, president of Bad Boy Records, did not interfere during the incident.
When questioned by Combs’ lawyer, Nicole Westmoreland, during cross-examination, Richard claimed some celebrities were there – including Usher and Ne-Yo.
Fox News Digital reached out to representatives for Usher and Ne-Yo for comment. Neither star has been accused of any wrongdoing in this case.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ defense
questioned former Danity Kane singer Dawn Richard about her recollection of events during Monday’s cross-examination.
Diddy’s defense lawyer, Nicole Westmoreland, asked if Richard’s allegations had changed. Richard said they are the best she can recall.
Westmoreland then brought up the allegation that Richard witnessed Diddy attempt to hit Cassie Ventura in the head with a skillet of eggs. According to Richard, she spoke about the incident in her civil lawsuit and in a meeting with prosecutors.
Westmoreland showed the jury a letter sent on Richard’s behalf where the musician said she heard a pan hit the wall but didn’t see it. The now 41-year-old said she does not recall.
Richard confirmed she told the government that Combs hit Cassie with the frying pan and agreed there is a difference between hitting someone with a frying pan and throwing a frying pan.
Westmoreland asked Richard if it’s been hard for her to keep her story straight. The singer said no and that she’s told the story to the best of her recollection.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Sean “Diddy” Combs would threaten Dawn Richard for intervening his
relationship with Cassie Ventura, the former Danity Kane singer testified Monday.
Richard claimed she told Cassie that she should leave Diddy after witnessing the rapper’s violent behavior towards his girlfriend. According to Richard, Cassie was torn. The singer testified that Cassie would listen, but she could see the fear.
Diddy allegedly didn’t like Richard talking to Cassie. Richard claimed Diddy would tell her, “I would pay for it” and “stay the f— outta my relationship.” Richard claimed Combs told them if they didn’t stay in line, there would be consequences.
Richard testified that Diddy would be “loud, angry, violent…it was mean.” The “Making the Band” star explained she tried to be as kind as possible to Diddy and tried to “approach Mr. Combs with softness…”
Richard admitted that she ultimately made the decision to stay out of the relationship because she didn’t think Cassie was ready to do anything.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Dawn Richard testified that Sean “Diddy” Combs’ security would not intervene when the rapper was allegedly physically assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura.
While on the stand Monday, the former Danity Kane singer claimed neither D-Roc nor Bonds, two of Diddy’s security guards, would do anything when they witnessed incidents of violence.
Richard testified about being in a car with Cassie, Combs, D-Roc and another woman. The singer claimed Cassie and Diddy were arguing because of something the rapper did. Combs proceeded to hit Cassie in the mouth, according to Richard. However, D-Roc allegedly did not do anything at the time.
Richard also described another incident where Diddy allegedly punched Cassie in the face with a closed fist. Cassie went to the bathroom crying as the rapper walked off. Richard observed Cassie with a swollen eye.
Richard explained Cassie often wore sunglasses and makeup to cover bruising.
The jury was shown a photo of Cassie, another woman and Richard wearing sunglasses. Richard explained they wore the sunglasses to have “solidarity” and be Cassie’s “support system.”
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Former Danity Kane singer Dawn Richard testified that she witnessed Sean “Diddy” Combs attack his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura
“frequently.”
Diddy’s trial testimony resumed Monday around 9:30am with Richard taking the stand.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mitzi Steiner asked the musician if she’d ever witnessed other acts of violence committed by Diddy. Richard previously testified that she saw Combs allegedly attempt to hit Cassie over the head with a skillet of eggs.
Richard now claimed she saw other acts of violence “frequently.” The singer, who appeared on “Making the Band,” testified that she witnessed Diddy choke, punch and kick Cassie.
According to Richard, the attacks could be random or occurred when Cassie would speak up for herself. Richard claimed Cassie was normally quiet, but when she spoke up for herself, Diddy would allegedly hurt her.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Dawn Richard’s testimony in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sex-trafficking trial could “undercut” any theory the defense presents saying Cassie Ventura is “exaggerating” her claims against the rapper.
Cassie testified for four days about alleged violence that occurred throughout the 10-year relationship she had with Combs. Richard took the stand on Friday and testified that she witnessed Diddy become physically violent with Cassie on at least one occasion.
“Dawn Richard’s testimony could land with real force if the jury finds her credible, because eyewitness accounts of physical violence — especially from someone in Diddy’s inner circle — cut through the ‘he said, she said’ dynamic and provide direct corroboration of Cassie’s claims,” criminal defense attorney Duncan Levin told Fox News Digital.
“Jurors tend to give significant weight to third-party observations, especially if the witness doesn’t appear to have an axe to grind. If her account holds up under cross-examination, it could seriously undercut any defense theory that Cassie is exaggerating or fabricating,” the lawyer, who previously worked on Harvey Weinstein’s defense team, explained.
Diddy’s trial resumed Monday with more testimony from Richard.
Sean “Diddy” Combs is currently on trial for charges of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, and transportation to engage in prostitution.
In addition to facing life in prison, the rapper is also at risk of losing the many assets he has built up since becoming a music mogul, including his mansions, cars, a private jet, and even his Bad Boy Records label.
The mogul owns several homes in the U.S., including a nearly $40 million home in the Los Angeles neighborhood of Holmby Hills, another one he bought near Los Angeles in Toluca Lake for $5.25 million, two side-by-side waterfront homes on Miami Beach’s Star Island that he paid $35 million and $14.5 million for, as well as a nearly $3 million Miami condo, according to Realtor.com.
“The properties themselves could be included or referenced in the indictment as a means that served the ends of those alleged crimes, and they could be seized,” Priya Sopori, Partner at Greenberg Glusker and a member of the firm’s litigation group, told Fox News Digital last year.
Diddy also owns a Gulfstream G550 jet through his LoveAir LLC valued at around $25 million, as well as a luxury car collection estimated to be worth around $1.6 million last year.
In addition to his material belongings, Diddy’s business enterprises could also be at risk, including Big Boy Records, which he started in 1993. The company still makes money through music and publishing rights, but its value has plummeted because of his allegations, according to USA Today.
His other businesses under the parent company, Combs Global, are also at risk of being seized. These include Combs Wines and Spirits, Revolt Media, Sean John fashion and fragrances brand and his nonprofit, the Sean Combs Foundation.
Fox News Digital’s Brie Stimson contributed to this report.
Testimony in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ trial will resume Monday with former Danity Kane singer Dawn Richard.
The musician began her testimony Friday, alleging she witnessed Diddy physically assault his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura. Richard’s testimony followed Cassie’s own and corroborated Cassie’s claims she experienced violence at the hands of Combs.
“Richard’s testimony is highly impactful because it corroborates Ventura’s account,” former federal prosecutor Neama Rahamani told Fox News Digital. “Her witnessing Combs attempt to hit Ventura with a skillet, kick her when she was in the fetal position, and drag her by the hair was one of the most graphic of the trial so far. Richard also [allegedly] suffered her own abuse. She [claims she] was groped and threatened not to speak out.”
“The prosecution has to corroborate Ventura’s testimony with that of independent witnesses,” the West Coast Trial Lawyers founder explained. “The defense scored points with Ventura’s emails and text messages. But Richard’s testimony shows a pattern of physical violence and helps rebut the defense’s argument that the conduct was consensual.”
Sean “Diddy” Combs returned to court for the second week of testimony in the rapper’s sex-trafficking trial.
Diddy entered the courtroom this morning wearing what appears to be a camel colored sweater. The rapper spent a few minutes standing, before sitting down. He then chatted with his lawyer, Marc Agnifilo.
Diddy is facing multiple counts of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion and transporting for prostitution. His indictment was unsealed after his arrest in September 2024.
The jury in his federal trial, which is expected to last eight weeks, have heard testimony from former Intercontinental Hotel security guard Israel Florez, male escort Daniel Phillip, Diddy’s ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura and HSI special agent Yasin Binda.
Testimony will resume Monday with former Danity Kane singer, Dawn Richard.
Fox News’ Maria Paronich contributed to this report.
Former Danity Kane singer, Dawn Richard, was called to the stand Friday as a witness for the prosecution in the federal trial against Sean “Diddy” Combs for sex crimes.
She first began working with the disgraced rapper in 2004 when she was 21 years old and was competing on the reality show, “Making the Band,” for a spot in the new girl group, Danity Kane.
Richard made the band, which broke up in 2009, and went on to work with Diddy again as part of the trio, Diddy – Dirty Money, alongside the rapper and Kalenna Harper.
The singer filed a lawsuit against Diddy in September 2024, alleging “years of inhumane working conditions which included groping, assault, and false imprisonment.”
“She’s an accomplished woman and she’s all about the music,” Richard’s lawyer, Lisa Bloom, told “Daily Mail’s The Trial of Diddy” podcast when the lawsuit was filed. “All she wants to do is make music and be a musician. And yet, she found herself in the position—after Cassie Ventura came forward—of saying, ‘I need to come forward too, in support of Cassie, and in support of others, to tell my own story.’”
In response to her allegations, Diddy’s lawyer released a statement claiming the rapper was “shocked and disappointed by this lawsuit” calling it “an attempt to rewrite history” by Richard.
Richard will continue her testimony Monday.
While there is “no question” that Cassie Ventura was victimized by Sean “Diddy” Combs, the government still has to prove the rapper engaged in racketeering, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution.
“The question we are left with from Week 1 is: Was Cassie Ventura victimized in such a way to amount to the specific federal charges in his indictment?” criminal defense attorney Phil Harvey told Fox News Digital.
“Those jurors are going to eventually get a set of legal instructions from the judge,” Harvey said. “Those jury instructions are going to make it clear: This is not an assault trial. It’s not a rape trial. And it’s not a morality play. Instead, the jurors will be asked if the government manages to prove three types of federal crimes: racketeering, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution.
“If the jurors get to deliberation, and all they have is a lot of evidence that Mr. Combs is a depraved soul who may have committed assault, battery and even rape, those jurors can still acquit him.”
The trial, which began May 12 with opening statements, is expected to last eight weeks. Combs has been in jail since his arrest in September 2024, after his Los Angeles and Miami homes were raided by law enforcement.
Fox News Digital’s Tracy Wright contributed to this report
After spending four days testifying in Sean “Diddy” Comb’s sex-trafficking trial, the rapper’s ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura said she was happy to “put this chapter of my life to rest.”
Cassie’s lawyer, Douglas Wigdor, read a statement on behalf of the “Me & U” singer outside of the Manhattan courthouse Friday.
“This week has been extremely challenging, but also remarkably empowering and healing for me,” Cassie’s statement read. “I hope that my testimony has given strength and a voice to other survivors, and can help others who have suffered to speak up and also heal from abuse and fear. For me, the more I heal, the more I can remember, and the more I can remember, the more I will never forget.”
“I want to thank my family and my advocates for their unwavering support, and am grateful for all the kindness and encouragement I have received,” her statement continued. “I am glad to put this chapter of my life to rest. As I turn to focus on the conclusion of my pregnancy, I ask for privacy for me and my growing family.”
Cassie spent a grueling four days on the stand, where she testified about the alleged physical abuse she suffered from Diddy throughout their 10-year long relationship. The singer-songwriter also told the jury she was forced to participate in alleged “freak offs” at the demand of the disgraced music mogul, where Diddy would require Cassie to have sex with male escorts in front of him.
Read more about Cassie’s testimony in the Diddy federal trial.
Cassie Ventura testified in week one of the federal trial against Sean “Diddy” Combs for sex crimes, giving crucial testimony as the government’s “star witness,” says criminal defense attorney, Phil Harvey. She was on the stand for four days.
Diddy’s former girlfriend of over a decade testified about the alleged abuse she experienced at the hands of the disgraced rapper, claiming she was physically abused and forced to participate in “freak offs” where Diddy would coerce her into having sex with a male escort while he watched.
Cassie also testified to using drugs to disassociate during the “freak offs,” which she claimed would sometimes last for days.
The prosecution finished the direct examination of Cassie on Wednesday. That same day, Cassie told the jury she chose to testify against Diddy because she could no longer carry the guilt.
Harvey also pointed out the wins from Diddy’s defense team, saying Anna Estevao, who cross examined Cassie, “did a good job staying on track,” and got Cassie to say she “willingly participated” in the “freak offs” and focused on the “consensual nature of their relationship.”
The defense also showed the jury texts featuring Combs congratulating Cassie on her pregnancy and checking in on her.
Cassie also testified about the assault at the hotel in 2016, alleging she was trying to leave a “freak off” when Diddy attacked her.
On May 12, former hotel security guard Israel Florez, who responded after Diddy’s violent attack on Cassie at the Intercontinental Hotel, testified that he tried to call police after intervening, but Cassie told him not to.
To end the first week, the jury also heard from former Danity Kane singer, Dawn Richard, who testified that she witnessed Diddy assaulting Cassie in 2009. Richard told the court that after she “observed Cassie being attacked,” the “Last Night” rapper told her it was par for the course in a normal relationship. Richard will continue her testimony on May 19.
Fox News Digital’s Tracy Wright contributed to this report.
Gov rips New Orleans’ progressive criminal justice system after jailbreak
While seven escaped prisoners, including two murder suspects, remain at large after a dramatic jailbreak from a New Orleans three days ago, Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry joined “America Reports” and issued a stern warning to those inside the jail who might have helped the inmates escape.
“They’re gonna go to jail as well,” said Landry. “Not only those people who may have aided and abetted them to get out, but those who continue to aid them, if we find them – if we find that you aided and abetted those fugitives – you’re going to jail as well.”
Landry said that authorities have reason to believe that most of the fugitives are still in the state of Louisiana, and most likely in the New Orleans area.
“We’re gonna hunt these folks down, we’re gonna find them, and we’re gonna bring them back to a jail that they can’t break out of,” Landry said.
He also said
The Republican governor ripped the parish’s progressive soft-on-crime policies that he claims aided the escape in a Sunday night press conference.
“The irony of the progressive promises that have been made to this city is clear. New Orleans handed the jail keys to those who vowed to keep criminals out of jail, and sadly, today we see that it worked,” Landry said during a Sunday night press conference. “I hope everyone understands that the video of those prisoners escaping epitomizes a progressive criminal justice system.”
Landry ripped politicians who “pander voters” which he said “lead[s] to a lack of safety and order.”
7 FUGITIVES REMAIN ON THE RUN AFTER NOLA PRISON BREAK; INSIDE JOB SUSPECTED
During the press conference, Landry announced an executive order to audit the Orleans Correctional Facility by the state’s Department of Corrections (DOC) and remove all DOC inmates from the local jail. He handed down another order directing the state inspector general to work with the Orleans Parish Sheriff to inventory all jail inmates awaiting trial and those awaiting sentencing.
Ten inmates escaped the Orleans Parish Correctional Facility on Friday night, which was captured on the jail’s surveillance footage. Authorities say they crawled through a hold hidden behind a toilet.
The inmates then reportedly scaled and then hopped the jail’s barbed wire fence and ran across the highway into a neighborhood before changing clothes.
They left behind messages including “To Easy LOL” and “WE INNOCENT” on the wall next to the hole through which they escaped.
Authorities believe the escapees had help from someone inside the jail, and that a female civilian employee who was monitoring the pod “stepped away” to get food, missing the escape.
The seven fugitives still on the run are Jermaine Donald, 42; Antoine Massey, 33; Leo Tate, 31; Lenton Vanburen, 27; Derrick Groves, 27; Gary Price, 21; and Corey Boyd, 19.
Donald and Boyd were both facing second-degree murder charges.
NEW ORLEANS JAIL INMATES CHARGED WITH MURDER AND OTHER CRIMES ESCAPE
Donald had also been charged with aggravated battery, possession of a firearm or weapon by a felon and obstruction of justice. Boyd’s other charges were attempted second-degree murder, aggravated battery, illegal carrying of weapons involving a crime, and obstruction of justice.
Miles and Vanburen were each facing charges of battery of a correctional facility employee, among other crimes.
Groves pleaded guilty to manslaughter in October and was awaiting sentencing at the jail.
“If he would have been sentenced by a court system, he most likely would not have had an opportunity to escape,” Landry said during his press conference.
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Authorities warned that the escapees may have traveled to other states. Bounties of $20,000 have been placed on their heads.
“We’ve had troopers working alongside our local state and federal partners throughout the night and developing more leads,” the Louisiana State Police told Fox News Digital on Monday morning.
The FBI did not return a comment request.
The ATF declined to comment.
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