LOS ANGELES, CA – A recently surfaced hotel security footage from 2016, allegedly showing entertainment tycoon Sean “Diddy” Combs involved in an assault against his then-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, is expected to expedite the federal inquiry into the Bad Boy Records founder’s behavior, says Derrick Parker, a seasoned expert on hip-hop related crime.
Parker, who has a history of investigating rap-related offenses with the NYPD, including a 1999 nightclub shooting incident involving Combs, anticipates a firm response from federal prosecutors in light of the newly revealed video. He believes that this evidence will alter public perception of Combs and prompt the government to hasten the legal proceedings against him.
The video, which remained concealed from public view until its exclusive release by CNN on Friday, reportedly depicts Combs, clad only in a towel and socks, violently assaulting Ventura in a luxurious Los Angeles hotel’s hallway. According to Parker, this footage could significantly damage Combs’ case and lend credibility to Ventura’s allegations of abuse against him.
In November, Ventura filed a lawsuit against Combs, accusing him of physical and sexual abuse. The case was settled the following day for an undisclosed amount. The lawsuit detailed an incident where an inebriated Combs allegedly punched Ventura, leaving her with a black eye. When Combs fell unconscious, Ventura attempted to leave, only to be followed and allegedly attacked again by Combs.
Since then, more individuals have come forward with accusations against Combs, leading to Homeland Security Investigations’ raids on two of Combs’ residences in March. This has fueled widespread speculation about impending criminal charges. In a related development, Miami authorities arrested Brendan Paul, an associate of Combs, on drug-related charges.
Parker anticipates that Combs may face racketeering and trafficking charges, and the recently surfaced video could significantly weaken his defense. Despite Combs’ denial of these allegations, the video evidence may undermine his claims of innocence.
Combs’ legal team has yet to comment on these developments. Parker, author of “Notorious C.O.P.” based on his experiences with the NYPD’s hip-hop unit, had previously warned that evidence in Ventura’s case could be subpoenaed by the Justice Department, regardless of any nondisclosure agreement in the settlement.