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Celebrity3 min(s) read
Diddy’s ex Cassie Ventura reacts to his sentence after his groveling apology in court
Cassie Ventura has responded to Sean “Diddy” Combs being sentenced to just over four years in prison, saying the punishment at least acknowledges the pain he caused. Her legal team said she would continue her recovery journey, surrounded by support.
The music mogul, who was convicted on charges related to transporting individuals for prostitution, broke down in court as he apologised to Ventura and other victims.
Combs had already served 13 months, which will be deducted from the 50-month sentence. He was acquitted of more serious charges, including racketeering and sex trafficking.
Reaction from Ventura and legal experts
Doug Wigdor, Ventura’s lawyer, welcomed the sentence as recognition of serious offences but said “nothing can undo the trauma” she endured.
“While nothing can undo the trauma caused by Combs, the sentence imposed today recognises the impact of the serious offences he committed,” said Ventura’s lawyer, Doug Wigdor, per CNN.
“We are confident that with the support of her family and friends, Ms. Ventura will continue healing knowing that her bravery and fortitude have been an inspiration to so many.”
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Others were far more critical of the sentence. Legal scholar Dale Cecka called it “horrible” and warned that it might discourage victims from coming forward in future cases involving powerful perpetrators.
She said it suggested wealth could still tilt the justice system. Civil rights lawyer Gloria Allred said she was relieved Combs was not released on time served, as some had feared, and hoped the outcome offered some comfort to survivors.
Judge's comments and Diddy’s courtroom apology
Judge Arun Subramanian condemned Combs’ behaviour during sentencing, describing a pattern of emotional, physical, and psychological abuse. He dismissed the defence’s attempt to downplay the connection between that behaviour and the criminal charges. The judge also praised the courage of those who testified, telling them their voices reached far beyond the courtroom.
Combs, in a tearful apology, said staying silent had been one of the hardest things he’d faced. He addressed Ventura directly, saying he was sorry for any harm he caused her, both physically and emotionally. He also apologised to all victims of domestic violence, referencing the video of him dragging and assaulting Ventura, which had resurfaced during the trial.
“My actions were disgusting, shameful and sick. I was sick from the drugs. I was out of control. I needed help and I didn’t get the help,” Combs said, per NBC News.
“I lost all of my businesses and lost my career and destroyed my reputation, and most of all, I lost my self-respect,” Combs added. “I have been humbled and broken to my core. I hate myself right now. I’ve been stripped down to nothing.”
The sentence has ignited widespread debate over accountability and whether the justice system is adequately equipped to handle cases involving celebrity influence and abuse.