A 2016 surveillance video exclusively obtained by CNN reveals Sean "Diddy" Combs physically assaulting his then-girlfriend, Filipina-American musician Cassie Ventura. 

The footage aligns with allegations from Ventura’s now-settled lawsuit filed in November.

The video, dated March 5, 2016, from the InterContinental Hotel in Century City, Los Angeles, shows Combs chasing Ventura down a hallway, grabbing her by the neck, throwing her to the floor, and kicking her. 

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As Ventura lies motionless, Combs retrieves a purse and suitcase, kicks her again, and briefly drags her by her sweatshirt. 

Ventura eventually stands, collects items, and moves to use a phone near the elevators. Combs returns, shoves her, and forcefully throws an object at her.

Ventura’s attorney, Douglas Wigdor, expressed that the video confirms Combs’ disturbing behavior. Ventura, who reached an undisclosed settlement with Combs, declined to comment. Combs has previously denied the allegations.

Ventura's lawsuit

Combs and Ventura, who were in an on-and-off relationship from 2007 to 2018, were seen together at a film premiere on March 7, 2016. 

Ventura's lawsuit claimed that Combs became extremely intoxicated, punched her, and followed her into the hallway, throwing glass vases at her as she ran to the elevator. Despite initially escaping, Ventura returned, fearing Combs' reaction. 

Hotel security suggested she leave after witnessing the footage.

The complaint also alleged that Combs paid $50,000 to the hotel for the footage. Ventura accused Combs of years of abuse, including rape in 2018, and coercion into sex acts with other men. 

Combs’ attorney, Ben Brafman, denied the allegations and emphasized that the settlement was not an admission of wrongdoing.

On December 6, 2023 Combs himself posted a denial on social media claiming that “People try to assassinate my character, destroy my reputation and my legacy. Sickening allegations have been made against me by individuals looking for a quick payday.”

Ongoing legal issues

Since November, Combs has faced five other civil lawsuits for sexual misconduct and other illegal activities, which he denies. 

Federal authorities searched Combs’ homes as part of a human trafficking investigation. Combs’ attorney criticized the searches as an overreach and a witch hunt based on baseless accusations.

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