On the fourth day of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sex trafficking trial, singer Cassie Ventura provided testimony that shed light on her past relationship with musician and producer Ryan Leslie. Cassie, 38, disclosed that she was in a romantic relationship with Leslie when she first became intimate with Diddy.
Cassie recounted that she met Diddy while still dating Leslie, who had discovered her in 2004 and signed her to his NextSelection record label. Their professional collaboration led to the release of her debut single “Me & U,” which gained significant attention and resulted in a joint venture with Diddy’s Bad Boy Records in 2006.
During her testimony, Cassie revealed that while she and Diddy initially maintained a platonic relationship, their dynamic changed when she traveled to Miami under the guise of a professional engagement. She admitted that the trip was orchestrated to avoid raising suspicion with Leslie, and it was during this visit that she and Diddy first became intimate.
Leslie, now 46, has previously addressed the end of their relationship, expressing that he was “blindsided” by Cassie’s involvement with Diddy. He channeled his emotions into his music, with songs like “Out of the Blue” and “How It Was Supposed to Be” reflecting the heartbreak he experienced.
Cassie’s testimony is part of the ongoing trial where Diddy faces charges including sex trafficking, prostitution, and racketeering conspiracy.
He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
