Sean “Diddy” Combs has formally requested that a federal judge exclude a widely circulated video showing him physically assaulting his former girlfriend, singer and model Cassie Ventura, from being used as evidence in his upcoming criminal trial. The motion, filed Thursday in federal court, centers on the authenticity and integrity of the video footage, which was first published by CNN in May 2024.
Combs’ attorneys argue that the footage—captured by hotel surveillance cameras and later obtained by CNN—has not been sufficiently authenticated by federal prosecutors. The defense claims that because the government has allegedly failed to provide the original, unedited version of the footage, it violates the legal standards under the “best evidence” rule.
The “best evidence” rule typically requires that the original version of a document, photo, or video be presented in court when the content is being contested, rather than a copy. Combs’ legal team contends that prosecutors did not adequately attempt to locate or preserve the original file and that the video in question may have been altered using freely available editing software prior to being broadcast.
In the filing, Combs’ attorneys write, “Because the video may unduly influence the jury with its graphic content and without proper authentication, it should be excluded. Alternatively, the Court should allow Mr. Combs the opportunity to present evidence at a pre-trial hearing regarding the unreliability of the existing and available video evidence.”
CNN Denies Altering Video
CNN, which originally aired the footage in May 2024, has flatly denied claims made by Combs’ legal team that it altered the video or destroyed the original source material. In a public statement, the network stated, “CNN never altered the video and did not destroy the original copy of the footage, which was retained by the source. CNN aired the story about the video several months before Combs was arrested.”
Despite CNN’s denial, Combs’ attorneys continue to insist that the news outlet mishandled the material. According to a previous filing submitted last month, the defense alleges that CNN purchased the footage, uploaded it to an editing program, and altered aspects of it before publishing. The attorneys claim this compromises its reliability as evidence in what has now become a high-profile case involving multiple federal charges.
Federal Charges and Upcoming Trial
Combs is currently facing a raft of serious federal charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering. Prosecutors recently filed a superseding indictment, adding two new charges to the case. The trial is set to begin on May 5 in a Brooklyn federal courtroom.
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Ventura, who settled a separate civil lawsuit against Combs in 2023, is expected to testify under her full name during the proceedings. Her testimony could play a crucial role in substantiating the allegations, which span several years and reportedly involve a pattern of coercion, abuse, and criminal enterprise.
Combs remains in federal custody as he awaits trial. The case has drawn national attention not only because of his celebrity status, but also due to the serious nature of the charges and the disturbing details contained in witness statements and filings.
Combs’ Public Response
In the aftermath of the video’s release last year, Combs posted an emotional video on social media acknowledging the violent incident. Speaking directly to the camera, he admitted to the assault but emphasized that he was working on self-rehabilitation.
“I was messed up. I hit rock bottom,” Combs said in the video. “But I make no excuses. My behavior on that video is inexcusable. I take full responsibility for my actions in this video. They’re disgusting. I was disgusted then when I did it, and I’m disgusted now. I went and I sought professional help—therapy, rehab. I asked God for mercy and grace. I’m not asking for forgiveness, but I am truly sorry.”
While his apology drew mixed reactions from the public, some critics questioned its timing and sincerity, especially as it came amid mounting legal scrutiny. Others pointed to a pattern of abuse allegations spanning back years, suggesting the video may be part of a broader pattern of conduct.
Legal Experts Weigh In
Legal experts say that while excluding such a critical piece of evidence is rare, it is not impossible. If the defense can demonstrate that the video has been altered or that its chain of custody is compromised, a judge may decide to bar it or allow only limited use during trial.
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“The authenticity and chain of custody of digital evidence are always key concerns in trials like this,” said Valerie Chen, a criminal defense attorney and former federal prosecutor. “If the defense can raise enough doubt about the origin or integrity of the video, it could significantly impact how the jury interprets the prosecution’s case.”
However, Chen added that public apologies, such as the one Combs issued, could still be entered into evidence by prosecutors, especially if they support the claims made by Ventura or other witnesses.
With the trial date rapidly approaching, all eyes will be on the court’s decision regarding the surveillance footage. Should the judge rule in favor of Combs and bar the video, it would deal a significant blow to the prosecution’s narrative. However, if the footage is admitted, it could become a centerpiece of the case—especially as Ventura prepares to take the stand.
As federal investigators continue to gather evidence and witnesses, the trial promises to be a landmark moment in both celebrity legal history and broader discussions about abuse, accountability, and power dynamics in the entertainment industry.
Variety has reached out to representatives for Combs for additional comment. As of publication, no new statements have been issued.
