By Ben Smith
Warning: This article contains graphic details that may distress some readers.
New York: Sean “Diddy” Combs’ favourite hotel was the Trump International in New York, a jury at the music mogul’s sex trafficking trial has heard.
David James, who was Combs’ personal assistant from 2007 until 2009, told Manhattan federal court he was in charge of arranging the hotel rooms for his employer and keeping them supplied.
Trump International hotel in New York was the record producer’s “favourite”, he said on Monday, claiming the staff “knew me very well” and “gave me a key”.
The trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs is continuing. Credit: AP
He said he booked rooms under the pseudonym “Frank Black”.
James testified that in 2008, after bringing an iPod from Combs’ Miami home to his hotel room, he opened the door to see his employer’s then-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, on a bed while a naked man he did not recognise fled the room.
Ventura, who was in the witness box last week, told the court Combs had forced her into sex parties known as “freak-offs” with male escorts during their 10-year relationship.
The drug-fuelled sessions could last as long as four days, and frequently took place in hotels, leaving the rooms trashed and smeared with baby oil, she claimed.
Tearfully recalling his first days as Combs’ assistant, James said an executive at the music mogul’s company, Bad Boy Entertainment, told him his job was to “serve” his employer.
“I remember sitting at her desk and there was a picture of Mr Combs on the wall,” James told the court.
David James, former assistant to Sean “Diddy” Combs, testifies on Monday.Credit: AP
“She pointed at the wall and said: ‘This is Mr Combs’ kingdom. We’re all here to serve him.’ ”
Combs is charged with racketeering conspiracy, sex-trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution.
If convicted on all counts, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and could face life in prison.
He has pleaded not guilty on all counts.
The Telegraph, London
If you or anyone you know needs support, you can contact the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service on 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732), Lifeline 131 114, or Beyond Blue 1300 224 636.
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