Sean Combs’ Assistant Testifies in Court
In a New York courtroom on Wednesday, Sean “Diddy” Combs’ former personal assistant revealed that he was responsible for cleaning up after Combs’ hotel stays following what he described as “sex marathons.” He emphasized that part of his role involved safeguarding Combs’ public image, which, perhaps somewhat surprisingly, seemed to be a priority for him.
Kaplan, who assisted Combs from 2013 to 2015, detailed how the founder of Bad Boy Records sometimes called upon him to deliver “drug kits,” which included a mix of prescription medications and over-the-counter pain relief. He also mentioned being sent out to procure MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, for Combs.
Aged 34, Kaplan received immunity in exchange for his testimony after initially indicating he might invoke the Fifth Amendment. Prosecutors have accused Combs of exploiting his employees, using his music and fashion successes to cover up his behavior while putting them in precarious positions.
During his testimony, Kaplan shared that Combs would frequently threaten his employment, even over seemingly minor issues like the size of bottled water. Additionally, Combs’ longtime girlfriend, singer Kathy, testified to witnessing Combs physically assault her, leading to Kaplan’s departure from the job.
Kaplan’s testimony will continue on Thursday, followed by remarks from rapper and actor Kid Cudi, who is anticipated to discuss his past relationship with Kathy in 2011. Prosecutors allege Combs was so agitated by this connection that he orchestrated an attack on Cudi’s car.
On the same day, federal agents informed the jury about the discovery of two handguns linked to a March 2024 incident at a home near Miami. They also described a stash that included psilocybin, MDMA, and various drugs hidden in a wooden box marked with one of Combs’ nicknames.
Geral Ganon, a special agent with Homeland Security, stated that dozens of baby oils and lubricants were also found, underscoring the bizarre nature of the investigation. Combs’ lawyer, Tenny Geragos, mentioned that a search operation involved around 80 to 90 agents, armored vehicles, and even a boat patrol, highlighting the extent of the investigation.
This federal inquiry reportedly started just after Cassie filed a lawsuit in November 2023, alleging years of abuse from Combs and involving numerous incidents with male sex workers. Following the lawsuit, Combs agreed to a $20 million settlement.
Combs has denied all allegations, asserting that he did not engage in any abusive behavior towards Kathy or anyone else, claiming that the evidence presented reflects domestic issues rather than actual assault or sex trafficking.
The jury also heard from psychologist Dawn Hughes, who examined the dynamics of abusive relationships. She explained how victims may grapple with low self-awareness, often maintaining ties to their abusers despite the hurt.
Kathy shared her history with Cudi, indicating they dated briefly around late 2011. Although her relationship with Combs had ended, she described ongoing “freak-offs.” During these encounters, Combs reportedly became aware of her communications with Cudi.
Kathy’s mother testified on Tuesday that she had sent an email to Kathy in December 2011, expressing concern for her daughter’s safety and even asking Combs for financial help, which she provided out of fear.
Kathy indicated that by the year’s end, she and Cudi had parted ways, citing overwhelming danger and uncertainty stemming from the situation. Cassie recounted receiving news from Combs about Cudi’s car being destroyed, which stirred further intrigue in the case.
