Cassie Ventura and music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs have reached a settlement just one day after Ventura filed a federal lawsuit accusing Combs of rape and years of abuse. Both parties released statements confirming the resolution, expressing a desire to put the matter to rest amicably.
Combs, in a statement obtained on Friday, conveyed, “We have decided to resolve this matter amicably. I wish Cassie and her family all the best. Love.” Ventura, who previously dated Combs, also issued a statement thanking her family, fans, and lawyers for their unwavering support during this challenging time.
PHOTO: KEVIN MAZUR/GETTY IMAGES.
Details of the settlement were not immediately disclosed, leaving the public curious about the terms agreed upon by the two parties involved.
Ben Brafman, Combs’ attorney, emphasized in a statement on Saturday that settling a lawsuit is not an admission of wrongdoing, stating, “Mr. Combs’ decision to settle the lawsuit does not in any way undermine his flat-out denial of the claims. He is happy they got to a mutual settlement and wishes Ms. Ventura the best.”
Ventura’s federal lawsuit, filed in New York City, alleged physical violence, controlling behavior, and the introduction to a lifestyle of excessive alcohol and substance abuse by Combs. She also claimed that, through threats of violence, Combs coerced her into engaging in various sex acts with male sex workers.
Combs vehemently denied these allegations, with his attorney referring to the claims as “outrageous.” Additionally, Ventura was accused of attempting to blackmail Combs by threatening to write a damaging book unless she received $30 million.
In response, Douglas Wigdor, Ventura’s attorney, fired back, alleging that Combs attempted to pay her off to maintain her silence. “Mr. Combs offered Ms. Ventura eight figures to silence her and prevent the filing of this lawsuit,” Wigdor stated. “She rejected his efforts and decided to give a voice to all women who suffer in silence. Ms. Ventura should be applauded for her bravery.”
Ventura’s lawsuit detailed her entry into a fast-paced, drug-fueled lifestyle initiated by Combs within a few years of their meeting. She also accused Combs of exerting power and influence over her throughout their business relationship, which lasted until 2019.
In a particularly disturbing allegation, Ventura claimed that after attempting to end their relationship in 2018, Combs forced his way into her home and raped her. The singer, now a mother of two, asserted that she struggled with addictions to drugs and alcohol, which she claimed were established and fueled by Combs during their relationship.
Ventura filed her lawsuit under New York’s Adult Survivors Act, allowing adult survivors of sexual abuse to sue their abusers in the state, even after the expiration of the statute of limitations. The act is set to expire next week.
The resolution of this high-profile case leaves many questions unanswered, emphasizing the importance of fostering open conversations around consent, abuse, and the complexities surrounding legal proceedings in such matters. The impact of this settlement reverberates beyond the individuals involved, prompting reflection on the broader implications for survivors seeking justice.
