Podcasts > Rotten Mango > “I was paid thousands to rub baby oil on her” - Witness From Day 2 of Diddy's Trial

“I was paid thousands to rub baby oil on her” - Witness From Day 2 of Diddy's Trial

By Stephanie Soo & Ramble

In this episode of Rotten Mango, host Stephanie Soo examines the ongoing legal proceedings in Sean Combs's trial, focusing on testimony from a male escort regarding alleged sexual encounters with Cassie Ventura and Combs at the Gramercy Park Hotel. The witness's account includes descriptions of recorded encounters and observations of alleged domestic violence incidents.

The summary covers the contrasting approaches of the prosecution and defense teams, with particular attention to defense attorney Donaldson's cross-examination strategy and its potential impact on witness credibility. The summary also details the courtroom atmosphere, including Combs's changing demeanor throughout the proceedings and his family's presence during the trial, including their responses to explicit testimony and their prayer gatherings during breaks.

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“I was paid thousands to rub baby oil on her” - Witness From Day 2 of Diddy's Trial

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“I was paid thousands to rub baby oil on her” - Witness From Day 2 of Diddy's Trial

1-Page Summary

Witness Testimony on Alleged Sexual Encounters

A male escort provided testimony about his encounters with Cassie Ventura and Sean Combs. The witness described being hired for what was supposedly a bachelorette party, only to find Ventura alone in lingerie at the Gramercy Park Hotel. According to his testimony, Combs was present and directed sexual encounters between the witness and Ventura, sometimes recording these encounters with both a phone and camcorder.

The witness also testified about alleged instances of domestic violence, claiming he observed Combs throwing a bottle near Ventura and dragging her by her hair. Despite the witness urging Ventura to leave Combs, she insisted she was "okay."

Defense's Cross-Examination Strategy

According to Stephanie Soo and her researchers, Defense Attorney Donaldson's cross-examination was notably disjointed and confusing. His repetitive use of the word "correct" (over 97 times on the first day) and disorganized questioning style appeared to undermine his effectiveness. Rather than weakening the witness's testimony, Soo suggests that Donaldson's approach may have inadvertently strengthened the witness's credibility.

Courtroom Dynamics

Soo observed significant changes in Sean Combs's demeanor throughout the proceedings. Initially stoic, Combs became more reactive during witness testimonies, displaying visible frustration at times. The proceedings were marked by contrasting communication styles between Marine Comey's clear, direct prosecution approach and Donaldson's less focused defense strategy.

Trial Proceedings and Family Impact

The high-profile nature of the case was evident in the presence of sketch artists, who captured the proceedings in the camera-free courtroom. Combs's family showed strong unity throughout the trial, with his adult daughters briefly leaving during explicit testimony. Soo noted that during breaks, the family was observed gathering in prayer circles, highlighting the emotional weight of the proceedings.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Defense Attorney Donaldson's cross-examination strategy involved repetitive questioning and a disorganized style. Despite the intention to challenge the witness's testimony, the approach may have unintentionally bolstered the witness's credibility. The excessive use of the word "correct" and the disjointed nature of the questioning could have led to confusion and potentially backfired on the defense. Stephanie Soo noted that Donaldson's tactics did not effectively weaken the witness's account as intended.
  • Sketch artists are used in courtrooms where cameras are not allowed to visually document legal proceedings. They create drawings that capture key moments, expressions, and interactions during trials. These sketches serve as visual records of the events in the courtroom, providing a way to share the trial's atmosphere and key details with the public. In high-profile cases, where media coverage is intense, sketch artists play a crucial role in visually representing the trial for news outlets and the public.
  • The behavior of Combs's family during the trial, including leaving during explicit testimony and gathering in prayer circles, reflects their emotional response to the distressing nature of the court proceedings. Their actions suggest a mix of discomfort with the explicit details being discussed and a need for emotional support and solidarity during a challenging time. This behavior can be common in high-stress legal situations, where family members seek solace and strength from each other to cope with the intensity of the trial. The family's reactions provide insight into the personal impact of the trial on those closest to the defendant.

Counterarguments

  • The credibility of a witness's testimony, especially in cases involving sexual encounters, can be subject to scrutiny, and the defense may question the reliability or motives of the witness.
  • Observations of domestic violence are serious allegations that require corroboration; the defense might argue that the witness's claims are not substantiated by other evidence.
  • Ventura's insistence that she was "okay" could be interpreted in various ways, including as a coping mechanism or denial, which the defense might argue to suggest a different context.
  • The effectiveness of a cross-examination strategy can be subjective; what appears disjointed to some may be a deliberate tactic to confuse or unsettle a witness, and its impact on the witness's credibility can be debated.
  • Changes in a defendant's demeanor can be interpreted in multiple ways; the defense might argue that frustration is a natural response to being falsely accused or to stressful legal proceedings, rather than an indication of guilt.
  • Communication styles in court are varied and can be strategic; the defense might argue that Donaldson's approach was intentionally designed to elicit certain responses or to create a specific narrative.
  • The presence of sketch artists and the high-profile nature of the trial could be argued to put undue pressure on the parties involved, potentially affecting the conduct of witnesses and the accused.
  • The family's unity and religious practices could be seen as a source of support and comfort in a difficult time, rather than as an indication of any particular stance on the allegations.
  • N/A

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“I was paid thousands to rub baby oil on her” - Witness From Day 2 of Diddy's Trial

Testimony on Alleged Sexual Encounters With Combs, Ventura

The witness, a male escort, provided a detailed account of his alleged interactions with Cassie Ventura and Sean Combs, detailing controversial sexual encounters and instances of domestic violence.

Witness Describes First Lap Dance For Cassie Ventura

The witness recounted how he was hired under the specific request for a "black dancer" at a bachelorette party. Arriving at the Gramercy Park Hotel for the supposed performance, he found Cassie Ventura alone in lingerie, waiting for him. He was initially prepared to perform a strip tease as a police officer but ended up in an NYPD t-shirt after not having the full uniform. Cassie informed the witness that instead of a dance, Sean Combs, whom the witness observed wearing a robe, bandana, and baseball cap, wanted him to give her a massage with baby oil for her birthday.

Hired Witness Arrives For "Black Dancer" Request at Bachelorette Party, Finds Cassie Ventura in Lingerie

Upon arrival, the witness was greeted by Cassie Ventura in red wig and lingerie. She invited the witness into the suite, which he was expecting to be filled with a group for a bachelorette party. However, it was only Ventura who stood at the door.

Cassie Told the Witness Sean Combs Wanted Something Special For Her Birthday, Asking Them to Give Her a Massage With Baby Oil

Ventura requested a massage with baby oil from the witness, explaining that her husband wanted to do something special for her birthday. The witness did not immediately recognize that the man present was Sean Combs.

Witness Saw Combs in Hotel Room Wearing Robe, Bandana, and Baseball Cap

Sean Combs’s presence in the hotel room was confirmed by the witness, who later recognized his voice and observed his attire indicating that he wasn't going to participate in the encounter with the witness.

Witness Describes Cassie Ventura and Sean Combs' Sexual Encounters

Combs Directed Witness and Ventura in Sexual Activity, Indicating When to Stop or Finish

The witness testified that Sean Combs directed both him and Ventura during their sexual activities, instructing them when to slow down, stop, or not to finish yet. Combs also requested them to engage in role-play.

Combs and Ventura Disappeared Into Bedroom; Encounters Lasted Hours

The witness recounted that after he finished, Com ...

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Testimony on Alleged Sexual Encounters With Combs, Ventura

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The witness in the text is a male escort, which means he is hired to provide companionship and often sexual services in exchange for payment. Male escorts cater to clients seeking various forms of companionship, from social events to intimate encounters. In this case, the witness's profession as a male escort is significant as it sheds light on the nature of his interactions with Cassie Ventura and Sean Combs.
  • The relationship dynamics between Cassie Ventura and Sean Combs are complex and have been subject to speculation. They have been romantically linked for many years, with reports of an on-again, off-again relationship. Their interactions, as described in the testimony, suggest a level of intimacy and control exerted by Combs over Ventura. The witness's account portrays a dynamic where Combs directed sexual activities and allegedly displayed abusive behavior towards Ventura.
  • The encounters described in the text took place in a hotel room at the Gramercy Park Hotel. The witness was hired as a dancer for a private event, but upon arrival, found only Cassie Ventura present. Sean Combs was also in the room, directing the activities. The witness descr ...

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“I was paid thousands to rub baby oil on her” - Witness From Day 2 of Diddy's Trial

The Defense's Cross-Examination Strategy and Its Perceived Effectiveness

The defense's performance in a cross-examination is under scrutiny, with questions surrounding the tactic's efficacy as it may have inadvertently bolstered the witness's credibility.

Disjointed, Confusing Cross-Examination by Defense Attorney Donaldson

Stephanie Soo and her researchers found Defense Attorney Donaldson's cross-examination strikingly different from others they had observed. The questions posed were described as confusing, often leading the witness to correct Donaldson or question the relevance of what was being asked. Donaldson frequently used the word "correct," saying it a staggering 97 times on the first day and around 115 times on the second. While asking very basic questions like "Then you open the door, correct?" he maintained a particular cadence that obscured the strategy behind his questioning.

The cross-examination by Donaldson included verifying well-known information, such as the witness’s employment and assignments for the evening. He also asked puzzling questions about whether the witness was involved in prostitution, and required clarity even on straightforward subjects like the company slogan. Donaldson's cadence and movements—ranging from idiosyncratic behaviors like taking off and putting on glasses, to meandering his focus around the courtroom—added to the confusion.

Cross-Examination May Have Bolstered Witness's Credibility

Witness Direct vs. Donaldson's Disorganized Approach

In contrast to the direct and honest demeanor of the witness, Donaldson's cross-examination seemed unplanned and ineffective. Soo describes occasions when the witness had to correct Donaldson on the order of events or when they had to ask the attorney to specify their questions. At one point, the witness even offered to help Donaldson ask the questions properly. The frequent corrections and the need for clarification from the witness caused Soo and others to lose track of Donaldson's strategy, leading to an impression that the witness was more credible and authoritative.

Donaldson's Efforts to Highlight Inconsistencies Failed

Donaldson's attempts to expose inconsistenc ...

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The Defense's Cross-Examination Strategy and Its Perceived Effectiveness

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • Defense Attorney Donaldson's seemingly disjointed approach could be a deliberate strategy to unsettle the witness or to probe for inconsistencies in a non-linear fashion.
  • The excessive use of the word "correct" might be a tactic to establish a baseline of agreement before introducing more contentious questions.
  • Basic and unclear questions could be a method to build a foundation for more complex lines of questioning or to catch the witness off-guard.
  • Donaldson's cadence and movements, while perceived as confusing, might be intended to distract the witness or to maintain a certain dynamic in the courtroom.
  • The perception of Donaldson's cross-examination as unplanned might not take into account the possibility of a broader strategy that observers are not privy to.
  • The witness correcting Donaldson could be seen as Donaldson testing the witness's attention to detail and memory.
  • The need for the witness to ask for clarification could be a tactic to gauge the witness's understanding of the questions and to ensure precise answers.
  • The witness offering to help Donaldson could be interpreted as the witness becoming overly comfortable, which might lead to a slip or mistake.
  • Donaldson's failed attempts to highlight inconsistencies might still serve to plant seeds of doubt in the minds of jurors.
  • The witness's confident negation of events could be challenged later with new evidence or a different line of questioning.
  • Donaldson's ...

Actionables

  • You can improve your communication skills by recording yourself during a mock debate or presentation, then reviewing the footage to identify and work on areas where you seem disorganized or unclear. For example, if you notice you're using filler words excessively or your questions are convoluted, practice rephrasing them more succinctly.
  • Enhance your questioning techniques by playing a question-and-answer game with friends where they must request clarification for any vague questions you ask. This will train you to formulate clearer, more precise questions on the spot, similar to how a lawyer might refine their questioning in court.
  • Develop a habit of planning and structuring ...

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“I was paid thousands to rub baby oil on her” - Witness From Day 2 of Diddy's Trial

Dynamics and Reactions of Key Players in Courtroom

Observations from the courtroom reveal shifts in body language and demeanor from key individuals, particularly Sean Combs, and contrast the communication styles of the judge and prosecutors.

Sean Combs Shifted Body Language and Demeanor During Testimony

Stephanie Soo and co-hosts analyze the behavior of Sean Combs throughout the proceedings, highlighting his evolving attitude and interactions with the courtroom.

Combs Was Stoic Initially, but Became Reactive During the Witness's Testimony

Initially, Combs seemed to survey the room making eye contact with various individuals. As the trial progressed, however, Combs's approach shifted. He became more stoic and avoided making further eye contact, being described as rigid and statuesque during opening statements. Yet, during the two witness testimonies, his body language relaxed and he reacted to what was said during the trial.

Combs Occasionally Glanced At the Jury or Defense, Reacting To Witness Statements

Combs began to engage more as the trial unfolded, looking at different points in the courtroom and jotting down notes. Stephanie Soo observed Combs doing a "three-point look," glancing between the witness, what she assumes is the jury, and his defense team. Soo notes Combs's furrowed eyebrows and apparent frustration when the defense seemed unprepared or their objections were denied. Combs also turned his head in response to the witness's comments on intimate relations, signaling a departure from his earlier stoicism.

The Judge and Prosecutors Displayed Contrasting Communication Styles

The communication styles of the court's judge and the prosecutor Marine Comey stood out during the trial.

Marine Comey: Effective Communicator; Judge's Stern, Fatherly Demeanor

Stephanie commends Comey's direct and effective communication style, emphasizing that her points are st ...

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Dynamics and Reactions of Key Players in Courtroom

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • Sean Combs's body language could be interpreted in various ways, and without expertise in behavioral analysis, these interpretations might not accurately reflect his state of mind or intentions.
  • Combs's reactions during the testimony could be a natural human response rather than a strategic or conscious shift in demeanor, and it might be unfair to read too much into them.
  • The observation of Combs glancing at the jury or defense and reacting to witness statements is subjective and could be influenced by the observer's biases or expectations.
  • The judge's stern, fatherly demeanor might be perceived differently by different people in the courtroom, and what is seen as sternness could be interpreted as fairness or impartiality by others.
  • Marine Comey's communication style, while effective to some, might not resonate with everyone, and what is seen as directness could be perceived as brusqueness or lack of empathy by others. ...

Actionables

  • You can enhance your non-verbal communication skills by practicing in front of a mirror to become more aware of your body language. Start by observing your facial expressions and posture when discussing different topics or reacting to certain statements. This self-awareness can help you adjust your body language to be more engaging or authoritative depending on the situation.
  • Improve your adaptability in conversations by role-playing various scenarios with a friend or colleague. Take turns being the speaker and the listener, and practice shifting your demeanor based on the other person's testimony or statements. This exercise can help you become more responsive and effective in real-life discussions or negotiations.
  • Develop your ...

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“I was paid thousands to rub baby oil on her” - Witness From Day 2 of Diddy's Trial

Logistical and Observational Details of Trial Proceedings

Sketch artists and the media have a notable presence in the courtroom atmosphere, and spectators' reactions play a role in trial proceedings.

Courtroom, Sketch Artists, and Media Shaped Trial Atmosphere

In a high-profile case, the absence of cameras in the courtroom meant sketch artists were present to capture the proceedings. The interactions with sketch artists became prominent during the trial where defendant Ghislaine Maxwell sketched an artist who then sketched her in return. These sketches, along with others from various trials, are later framed and displayed within the courthouse.

Stephanie Soo details the courtroom layout, describing where the defense team, including Diddy, and the front row of prosecutors sat. She notes that Judge Arun's demeanor resembled that of a disappointed father when dealing with the attorneys. Officer Riz, who besides the judge also controls the courtroom, interacted with Mark Garagos, who was present with his phone.

The courtroom is set up traditionally, with the judge, prosecutors, defense, and jury facing forward. There is a podium next to the jurors where the prosecutor or defense attorney examines witnesses. However, the sketch artists' work created a distraction and disrupted the flow during quiet moments of cross-examination.

Spectators' and Combs's Family Reactions and Actions Not ...

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Logistical and Observational Details of Trial Proceedings

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • The presence of sketch artists and media might not necessarily shape the trial atmosphere; it could be argued that they are simply documenting the proceedings without influencing them.
  • Spectators' reactions may not significantly impact the trial's outcome as the jury is instructed to base their verdict solely on the evidence presented.
  • The prominence of interactions with sketch artists could be seen as a minor anecdote rather than a significant aspect of the trial.
  • The courtroom layout is a standard setup and may not warrant special attention unless it directly affects the trial's proceedings.
  • Officer Riz's control of the courtroom and interactions with individuals like Mark Garagos may not be unusual or particularly noteworthy in the context of courtroom operations.
  • The assertion that sketch artists' work created distractions could be challenged by arguing that courtroom participants are trained to maintain focus despite potential distractions.
  • Sean Combs's daughters leaving t ...

Actionables

  • You can observe public trials to understand courtroom dynamics and the impact of non-verbal cues on proceedings. By attending local court sessions, you'll gain firsthand experience of how the presence of media, spectators, and the layout can influence the atmosphere and potentially the outcome of a trial. For example, notice if the reactions of those present seem to sway the proceedings or if the setup of the room appears to affect communication between parties.
  • Create a simple sketch or note-taking practice during live events to enhance your observation skills. While watching a live event, such as a town hall meeting or a school play, practice sketching scenes or jotting down key emotional reactions and interactions. This will help you develop an eye for detail and an understanding of how visual documentation can capture the essence of an event, similar to how courtroom sketch artists operate.
  • Engage in community support activities to ...

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