Diddy on Trial: Cassie’s Mum, ‘The Punisher’ and Gun Photos

A warning, this episode contains descriptions of violence and graphic descriptions of sex.

On Tuesday, Cassie’s mother Regina Ventura testified for the prosecution. She told the court that in 2011 she took out a loan to pay Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs $20,000, so he would not release explicit tapes of her daughter. He repaid the money shortly after.

Exotic dancer Sharay Hayes, known as ‘The Punisher’, testified that he was hired to perform for Diddy and singer Cassie Ventura between eight and twelve times.

Diddy’s former assistant David James told the court that Diddy was not aware of everything going on at his house.

Prosecutors showed evidence from the raids on Combs’ Miami home on Star Island, Florida. This included photos of loaded guns, bullets and sex toys.

Scott Mescudi, the rapper known as Kid Cudi, is expected to give evidence later this week.

Anoushka Mutanda-Dougherty speaks to the BBC's New York digital reporter, Sakshi Venkatraman about the day in court.

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs is on trial in New York, facing federal charges of sex trafficking, racketeering with conspiracy and transportation for prostitution. He denies all the charges.

The Diddy on Trial podcast is here to investigate the rumours, confront the theories, and give you the answers that you need.

We also want YOU to be part of the conversation. Have you any questions about the case? Heard a theory that doesn’t sit right with you? Get in touch now via WhatsApp: 0330 123 555 1.

Details of organisations in the UK offering information and support with some of the issues raised are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline

Presenter: Anoushka Mutanda-Dougherty Series Producer: Laura Jones Sound Design: Mark Burrows Senior Journalist: Chrystal Genesis Executive Producer: Louise Clarke Production Coordinator: Hattie Valentine Editor: Clare Fordham Commissioning Editor: Rhian Roberts Assistant Commissioner: Will Drysdale Commissioning Producer: Adam Eland Commissioning Assistant Producer: Rechmial Miller