New York City — A male exotic dancer testified in court that he learned the identity of his client, hip-hop mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs, when he turned on a hotel television that displayed a welcome message addressed to Combs. Sharay Hayes recounted his experiences while on the stand, sharing details about his encounters during a trial focused on allegations of sex trafficking involving Combs and his former girlfriend, Casandra Ventura.

Hayes, known professionally as The Punisher, described being hired to perform erotic scenes with Ventura while Combs observed from a corner. Initially unaware of who Combs was, Hayes’s realization came as he awaited clients in a luxury hotel suite and saw Combs’ name displayed on the screen. Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty to charges including racketeering and sexual trafficking.

During Hayes’ testimony, he indicated that he was instructed specifically not to acknowledge Combs, who allegedly concealed his face with a veil during their interactions. In the lavish setting of Trump Tower, Hayes described Ventura meeting him at the door in a bathrobe, and details of the room’s decor included furniture covered in sheets and bowls containing baby oil.

Testifying about the nature of their encounters, Hayes recounted between eight to twelve sessions where Combs dictated the actions of both Hayes and Ventura, including adjusting candles and prompting intimate interactions. He noted that Ventura sometimes reacted physically to Combs’ commands, appearing to seek his approval for certain activities.

Earlier in the day, the courtroom heard from Regina Ventura, Cassie’s mother, who presented evidence related to threatening communications sent to her daughter from Combs. An email dated December 23, 2011, revealed that Combs threatened to release explicit tapes and implied that harm would come to her but not directly from him. Regina also shared images that purportedly showed bruises on Cassie’s body, which she alleged were the result of Combs’ abusive behavior.

In her testimony, Regina described a scenario where Combs demanded $20,000 after expressing anger over his financial contributions to her daughter. She testified about feeling compelled to comply due to safety concerns, taking out a loan to fulfill the demand, which later reappeared in their account without explanation.

The trial saw an intense cross-examination of a former assistant to Combs, highlighting inconsistencies in earlier statements made about the case. As proceedings continue, the focus remains on the gravity of the accusations against Combs, who could face a life sentence if convicted.

Also on the docket was Homeland Security agent Gerard Gannon, who discussed evidence obtained from a raid on Combs’ Miami mansion in March 2024. Gannon reported the seizure of items including semiautomatic rifles, bullets, and lingerie, revealing alterations to weapon serial numbers that raised concerns about their legality.

As the trial progresses, further testimonies are anticipated, with notable figures set to appear, including rapper Scott Mescudi, who is expected to address allegations tied to Combs’ jealousy over past relationships. The case has drawn significant public attention, not only for its high-profile defendants but also for its serious implications regarding trafficking and abuse.