More witnesses will take the stand in the coming weeks, including Aubrey O’Day and Dawn Richard, two of Combs’ former artists.
Before Ventura’s emotional dayslong testimony, jurors heard from Israel Florez, a former security guard at the InterContinental Hotel, who spoke about the aftermath of the assault. Daniel Phillip, a 41-year-old male escort who claimed to have had sexual encounters with both Ventura and Combs, then testified in graphic detail about Combs’ alleged sexual practices.
On Thursday, Combs’ legal team began cross-examining Ventura, focusing on her complex relationship with the defendant and their alleged marathon sex sessions.
The defense has admitted to Combs’ violent outbursts, but maintains that prosecutors are mischaracterizing his consensual relationships and sexual encounters as criminal acts. The prosecution, however, has argued that Combs exploited his power, wealth and celebrity status to systematically abuse women, and commit a pattern of violent and coercive acts.
Several members of Combs’ family — including his mother, adult sons and young daughters — have attended the trial, as has Ventura’s husband, Alex Fine.
So far, the proceedings have been dominated by emotional testimony and graphic accusations, setting the tone for how this high-stakes legal battle will play out in the coming weeks. Below are nine key takeaways from the first week.
