Kaylah Walton
The federal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs is ongoing, with his former assistant, referred to as “Mia,” making serious claims of sexual misconduct and emotional manipulation. Mia, who was employed by Combs from 2009 to 2017, provided her testimony for a second day, revealing the high-pressure environment that forced her to continually seek Combs’ approval. Her testimony illustrates her feelings of entrapment and fear, sharing experiences of sleepless workdays and reported mistreatment.
In cross-examination on Friday, Combs’ lawyer, Brian Steel, sought to question Mia’s reliability as a witness. He inquired why she remained in Combs’ employment despite the alleged incidents and why she would go out of her way to create personalized gifts for him. Mia defended her decisions, stating that her role had consumed her life, making her feel compelled to cling to her job despite the mistreatment.
Mia recounted the first alleged incident of assault, which she claimed occurred at the Plaza Hotel in New York, just a few months after she began working for Combs. She described how he asserted control over her through verbal degradation and erratic behavior. Her employment ended suddenly in 2016 when she was informed that Revolt Films, where she had been stationed, was closing down. Mia testified that Combs did not inform her of her termination personally; instead, it was communicated to her by another executive, leaving her in shock.
Much to consider
Legal documents unveiled text exchanges between Mia and Combs’ chief of staff, Kristina “KK” Khorram, revealing Mia’s suicidal inclinations following her job loss. She affirmed that working for Combs defined her existence, causing the abrupt transition to be particularly harrowing. The defense team scrutinized Mia’s past relationships with Combs, questioning her public friendliness and her celebratory social media posts for his birthday. Mia replied that as his assistant, she had the obligation to maintain a favorable public image while in service to him.
Steel placed direct scrutiny on Mia’s claims, querying if Combs ever engaged in unwanted sexual conduct towards her. Mia steadfastly responded, “Everything I stated in this courtroom is accurate. I have been truthful with everyone.” Additionally, she disclosed that after her separation, she sought severance and ultimately secured a $400,000 settlement, retaining $200,000 after legal fees.
The court proceedings will continue on Monday with further questioning of Mia. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump weighed in on the situation, stating that he would “consider the facts” if Combs were convicted and a pardon request was made. Trump emphasized that he hasn’t been in contact with Combs for years, distancing himself from the ongoing legal matters.
