Sean “Diddy” Combs allegedly brought three handguns to a well-known Los Angeles diner in 2008 after learning that his music industry rival Suge Knight was present, a New York court heard on Tuesday. David James, Diddy’s former personal assistant, gave detailed testimony during the rapper’s ongoing sex trafficking trial, which includes accusations of abuse, coercion, and controlling behaviour towards women over several years. James recounted the late-night confrontation at Mel’s Drive-In, where tension escalated after Knight was spotted nearby. He testified that they rushed back to Diddy’s residence, only for Diddy to insist on returning to the scene — with three firearms visible on his lap.
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James described the fear he felt that evening, stating it was the first time he realised his life could be in danger while working for the music mogul. He left Diddy’s employment six months later. The incident was just one of several explosive claims in a trial filled with accounts of volatile behaviour, including alleged physical altercations with Diddy’s then-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, excessive work demands, and drug use. James also spoke about the intense working conditions, saying one assistant was hospitalised due to dehydration after a 24-hour shift, and he himself was required to take polygraph tests when items went missing.
He further testified about preparing hotel rooms in advance for Diddy’s arrival, including dropping off a “medicine bag” containing 30 pill bottles and personal items such as condoms and baby oil. Diddy reportedly favoured the Trump International Hotel in New York and used the alias “Frank Black” when booking. The court also heard testimony from Cassie Ventura’s mother, Regina Ventura, who said she received an email from Diddy’s bookkeeper in 2011 demanding repayment of $20,000, which Diddy later returned. She said Cassie had warned her that he had threatened both her and rapper Kid Cudi, whom she was dating at the time.
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Further testimony is expected from Cudi later this week. The court also heard from a male escort known as “The Punisher”, who described being hired for group sex encounters involving Diddy and Cassie, which he said sometimes resulted in erectile dysfunction. During cross-examination, Diddy’s lawyer challenged James’ version of events, citing inconsistencies with past statements. James insisted he had no real choice but to follow Diddy’s orders that night, citing the visible presence of firearms. Meanwhile, Diddy sat in court actively conferring with his legal team, appearing to follow the proceedings closely.
