In a dramatic turn of events during Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking and racketeering trial, a former security guard provided testimony that could significantly impact the proceedings. Israel Florez, who worked as a security guard at the InterContinental Hotel in Los Angeles in 2016 and is now an LAPD officer, recounted a disturbing incident involving Combs and his then-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura.

Florez described witnessing Combs assault Ventura in a hotel hallway, an event captured on surveillance footage. He testified that after the assault, Combs, wearing only a towel and displaying a “devilish stare,” offered him cash and said, “Don’t tell nobody,” which Florez interpreted as an attempt to buy his silence. When Combs allegedly confiscated another guard’s phone to prevent the incident from being recorded, Florez physically restrained him to retrieve the device.

This testimony adds to the mounting evidence against Combs, who faces multiple charges, including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation to engage in prostitution. The trial, which began on May 12, 2025, has already featured emotional and graphic testimony from Ventura, who detailed years of alleged abuse, including being coerced into drug-fueled sex sessions orchestrated by Combs.

Ventura’s testimony included descriptions of “freak-offs,” where she was allegedly forced to engage in sexual acts with male escorts while Combs watched and directed the encounters. She also recounted instances of physical violence, psychological manipulation, and control over her personal and professional life. A key piece of evidence presented in court is a 2016 surveillance video showing Combs assaulting Ventura in a hotel hallway.

The prosecution argues that Combs operated a long-running criminal scheme involving sex trafficking, kidnapping, and related offenses, with the help of his inner circle. They assert that his associates enabled and concealed his alleged crimes.

Combs’ legal defense maintains that his conduct does not meet the legal definition of sex trafficking and that the activities were consensual, reflecting a lavish lifestyle rather than criminal behavior. They have also questioned Ventura’s credibility, suggesting inconsistencies in her testimony and highlighting her past drug use.

The trial is expected to last eight weeks, with testimonies from various witnesses shedding light on the allegations against Combs. As the proceedings continue, the testimonies of individuals like Florez and Ventura play a crucial role in the prosecution’s case, potentially influencing the trial’s outcome.

Combs, who has pleaded not guilty to all charges, faces the possibility of life in prison if convicted. The trial continues to unfold, drawing significant public attention due to the high-profile nature of the case and the serious allegations involved.