Diddy On Trial: Diddy’s Defence Questions ‘Inconsistencies’ in Dawn Richard’s Testimony
BBC Sounds | Released: May 20, 2025

Introduction

In the second week of the high-profile trial of Sean "Diddy" Combs, BBC Sounds' podcast "Diddy On Trial" delves deeper into the allegations surrounding the hip-hop mogul. Host Anushka Mutanda Doughty and New York correspondent Neda Taufik provide a comprehensive overview of the courtroom drama, focusing on the defense's challenge to Dawn Richard’s testimony.

Courtroom Atmosphere

Anushka sets the scene outside the Southern District of New York court:

Anushka Mutanda Doughty [00:18]: "Inside the courtroom, there's a different feeling. People are acting like we're watching TV. They're calling out their opinions. There's laughing, there's clapping."

Despite challenging weather conditions, the trial remains intense, with significant public interest persisting beyond the first week.

Dawn Richard’s Testimony and Cross-Examination

Dawn Richard, a key witness for the prosecution, provided graphic accounts last week. This week, the defense focused on highlighting perceived inconsistencies in her statements.

Neda Taufik [01:39]: "She went over some of the allegations she had about Diddy... Dawn Richard trying to insist she told it the same way that she remembers it."

Key Points:

• Alleged Violence: Dawn testified about witnessing Diddy assaulting Cassie Ventura, describing instances where Diddy allegedly became physically aggressive.

• Defense's Strategy: Diddy's lawyer, Nicole Westmoreland, aggressively cross-examined Dawn, suggesting she had altered her story over time.

  Nicole Westmoreland: "Would you agree with me that you have changed your story numerous times?"

• Notable Quote:

  Neda Taufik [02:12]: "This was kind of a painful part of, you know, cross examination that went on for quite a long time."

• Impact on Credibility: The defense aimed to undermine Dawn's reliability by pointing out discrepancies in her recounting of specific incidents, such as the "egg incident" where Diddy supposedly threw a skillet.

Kerry Morgan’s Testimony

Kerry Morgan, Cassie Ventura’s longtime friend, took the stand to corroborate Cassie's allegations. Her testimony added depth to the prosecution’s case, detailing personal observations of Diddy’s behavior towards Cassie.

Kerry Morgan [06:35]: "I had moved on with my life and away from these people and these problems."

Key Points:

• Early Relationship with Diddy: Kerry described how she met Cassie in high school and their subsequent move to New York to pursue modeling careers.

• Alleged Abuse: She recounted witnessing two major incidents of violence:

  1. Los Angeles Incident:

     Kerry Morgan [09:00]: "She didn't know the exact date, but she said that Diddy was renting a house in Los Angeles... she saw Diddy push her."

  2. Jamaica Incident:

     Kerry Morgan [10:16]: "Cassie just bolted and ran into a wooded area barefoot... Cassie had a really big bump on her forehead."

• Diddy’s Intimidation Tactics: Kerry detailed an incident where Diddy arrived at Cassie’s home with a hammer, leading to Cassie feeling threatened and filing a lawsuit.

  Kerry Morgan [12:32]: "I don't think Cassie even cared if he came in and killed her."

• Relationship Dynamics: Kerry highlighted Cassie's dependence on Diddy for her career and livelihood, making it difficult for her to leave the toxic relationship.

Defense’s Line of Argument

The defense sought to diminish the prosecution's narrative by:

• Challenging Witness Credibility: By highlighting alleged changes in Dawn Richard’s testimony.

• Questioning Intentions: Suggesting witnesses like Kerry were testifying out of obligation rather than genuine concern.

• Presenting Alternative Perspectives: Attempting to portray Diddy as a misunderstood figure rather than an abuser.

David James’ Testimony

Introducing a new witness, David James, Diddy's executive assistant, provided an insider's look into Diddy’s professional environment.

David James: "This is Mr. Combs' kingdom and we're all here to serve in it."

Key Points:

• Work Environment: David described an all-consuming work schedule where Diddy was the center of attention, requiring long hours and complete dedication.

  Neda Taufik [17:52]: "He would work six to seven days straight... 8am to 4am."

• Overheard Conversations: David recounted overhearing conversations where Diddy referred to Cassie as "moldable" and maintained control over her career and personal life.

  David James [19:11]: "I got her right where I want her. She's young."

• Impact on Cassie: These interactions suggested a manipulative and controlling relationship, aligning with the prosecution’s claims of coercion and abuse.

Looking Ahead

The trial is expected to continue with more witnesses slated to testify, including Cassie's mother. The defense's strategy to challenge the credibility of key witnesses like Dawn Richard and Kerry Morgan remains central to their approach.

Anushka Mutanda Doughty [20:25]: "We're going to hear more from David tomorrow."

Conclusion

The second week of Sean "Diddy" Combs' trial has intensified, with the defense rigorously questioning the prosecution’s witnesses in an attempt to cast doubt on their testimonies. As the courtroom drama unfolds, "Diddy On Trial" continues to provide in-depth analysis and firsthand accounts, keeping listeners informed on one of the most sensational cases in recent hip-hop history.

Stay Informed

For those following the trial, subscribe to "Diddy On Trial" on BBC Sounds and enable push notifications to never miss an episode. Engage with the discussion by sending your questions via WhatsApp at 033-0123 555 1.

This summary captures the key discussions, insights, and developments from the second episode of "Diddy On Trial," providing a detailed overview for listeners and those interested in the ongoing trial.