Diddy Suffers Setback As Judge Rejects Claim Government Leaked Cassie Assault Video

Sean “Diddy” Combs has hit another legal roadblock in his sex trafficking case, as a federal judge denied his claim that government agents leaked a security video showing him allegedly assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, in 2016. The video, which surfaced on CNN, has been a contentious piece of evidence in the high-profile case.

Judge Dismisses Leak Allegation

On Monday (December 16), Judge Arun Subramanian rejected Diddy’s motion for an evidentiary hearing to investigate the alleged leaks. In his ruling, the judge noted:

• Diddy failed to provide sufficient evidence that the government leaked the footage.
• Prosecutors presented “compelling evidence” that CNN’s source was not connected to the government.
• The judge emphasized that the case should be decided in court, not through media coverage.

This decision is a blow to Diddy’s defense team, who had hoped to use the alleged leak as grounds to suppress the video or potentially dismiss charges.

Background on the Alleged Leaks

Diddy’s lawyers previously accused the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) of leaking the video to CNN, claiming the leak was part of a deliberate attempt to damage his reputation and defense. However, prosecutors have consistently denied this claim, asserting that they did not have possession of the video until after its release.

In their October filing, Diddy’s team argued that the leak was a strategic move to sway public opinion and requested restrictions on further disclosures.

Diddy Remains in Custody

Diddy, 55, is currently held at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Centre and is unlikely to be released before his trial begins in May 2025. His bail has been denied three times, with Judge Subramanian citing concerns over:

• Witness tampering
• Flight risk
• Propensity for violence

The denial followed allegations of past threats and violent incidents linked to the Bad Boy Records mogul.

The Broader Case

The sex trafficking and assault allegations against Diddy include claims that he coerced and abused multiple women over decades, including Cassie, who has been central to the case. The leaked hotel video is one of the most damning pieces of evidence, showing an altercation between Diddy and Cassie.

While the leaked footage has fueled public interest, the court has made it clear that the trial’s outcome will depend on the evidence presented during proceedings, not on media coverage or public speculation.

What’s Next?

With his trial set for May, Diddy faces an uphill battle. The court’s refusal to suppress the leaked video and its growing media presence may complicate his defense. However, the judge’s emphasis on a fair trial suggests the focus will remain on substantive evidence rather than media narratives.

Diddy’s legal team is expected to continue challenging the government’s evidence as the trial approaches, but this latest setback underscores the significant hurdles ahead for the embattled music mogul.