A witness in the federal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs shared a harrowing account with jurors, detailing a terrifying incident where the music mogul allegedly dangled her over a balcony before throwing her onto furniture. Bryana Bongolan, a designer, revealed that this incident occurred at the home of Casanda “Cassie” Ventura, Combs’s ex-girlfriend and a crucial witness in the case. Bongolan testified that Combs entered the apartment in a fit of rage, shouting accusations at her that she was clueless about.
During her testimony, Bongolan also shared another troubling event where she witnessed Combs throwing a knife at Ventura, who then tossed it back. Fearful of the repercussions, Bongolan admitted she refrained from contacting law enforcement, driven by an intense fear of Combs, often referred to as “Puff.” The defense, however, sought to undermine Bongolan’s credibility, painting her as a drug user with an inconsistent story.
Bongolan is one of many who have filed civil suits against Combs, motivated by a desire for justice after the traumatic balcony incident. She disclosed to jurors that the ordeal left her with lasting psychological scars, including nightmares and paranoia. Defense attorney Nicole Westmoreland challenged Bongolan’s account, suggesting that she and Ventura conspired to align their stories for their respective lawsuits.
Ventura’s allegations against Combs have been a focal point, claiming severe abuse during their decade-long, tumultuous relationship. Her lawsuit against Combs was resolved swiftly, settling within a day of being filed. Westmoreland argued that Bongolan’s substance use, often with Ventura, impaired her recollection of events.
Bongolan’s testimony was protected by an immunity order, ensuring she wouldn’t face charges if she spoke truthfully. Despite this, she often responded to Westmoreland’s probing questions with uncertainty, unable to recall specific details. The court is set to hear further testimony from a woman under the alias Jane, related to the sex trafficking charges against Combs.
Sean Combs, now 55, is confronted with the possibility of a life sentence if found guilty of the serious charges of sex trafficking and racketeering. Prosecutors accuse him of orchestrating a criminal network involving high-ranking staff and bodyguards, executing illicit activities like kidnapping, bribery, and arson. In a related testimony, a hotel security guard recounted receiving a large sum of money from Combs for a video showing him violently assaulting Ventura.
The disturbing footage has been a key piece of evidence in the trial, repeatedly shown to the jury. Eddy Garcia, the security officer, initially resisted selling the tape despite pressure from Combs’s associate, Kristina Khorram. However, after persistent calls, including direct contact from Combs, Garcia eventually agreed to the transaction, sharing the proceeds with a supervisor.
Garcia testified under an immunity agreement and disclosed that he had signed a non-disclosure agreement after the incident. Another witness, under the pseudonym Mia, previously described various violent acts Combs committed against her and witnessed similar acts against Ventura. The trial, now in its fourth week, has featured testimony from alleged victims, former employees, and law enforcement officials.
The ongoing proceedings in Manhattan have been intense, with testimonies painting a picture of a complex and troubling environment around the former music powerhouse. Witness accounts have been varied, with some detailing their own experiences and others recounting observed events. The trial is anticipated to extend into the summer, continuing to unravel the layers of allegations surrounding Combs.
