Cassie in New York in 2022
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Casandra “Cassie” Ventura’s attorney commended her “courage” and said she “was in a good place” after Sean Combs was found guilty on two of the five federal charges he faced during his eight-week trial. Combs was convicted on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution but found not guilty on the more serious charges of sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy.
“This entire criminal process started when our client Cassie Ventura had the courage to file her civil complaint in November 2023,” Doug Wigdor said in a statement. “Although the jury did not find Combs guilty of sex trafficking Cassie beyond a reasonable doubt, she paved the way for a jury to find him guilty of transportation to engage in prostitution.“ Combs settled with Ventura one day after her suit was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.
Ventura’s November 2023 complaint was followed by more than 60 other civil suits accusing the disgraced mogul of sexual and physical abuse. “By coming forward with her experience, Cassie has left an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and the fight for justice,” Wigdor added. A eight-months-pregnant Ventura testified for four days in Combs’ trial, recounting an abusive relationship where she testified to being physically abused, coerced into having sex with male sex workers that Combs hired, and sexually assaulted after they broke up.
Outside the courthouse after the verdict, Wigdor noted, “Obviously we would have liked to see a conviction on the sex crimes [and] the RICO counts, but we’re pleased that he’s been held responsible for something, which is something that hasn’t happened in his lifetime. We’re hopeful that ultimately he receives a substantial sentence for what he’s done and we’re pleased that Cassie’s brought to light everything that has happened in this trial … we understand beyond a reasonable doubt is a high standard and we’re just pleased that he still faces substantial jail time.”
Wigdor added that Ventura is in a “good place” and “pleased” that Combs was found guilty on the two charges. The charges carry a maximum of 20 years in prison, but most legal experts expect Combs will receive a less severe sentence given his lack of a criminal record.
Wigdor concluded his written statement by lauding Ventura coming forward and testifying during the trial. “We must repeat – with no reservation – that we believe and support our client who showed exemplary courage throughout this trial. She displayed unquestionable strength and brought attention to the realities of powerful men in our orbit and the misconduct that has persisted for decades without repercussion. This case proved that change is long overdue, and we will continue to fight on behalf of survivors.”
From Rolling Stone US.
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