7 Tense Moments as P. Diddy’s Lawyer Grills ‘Mia’ in Sex Trafficking Trial

The federal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs saw its most dramatic cross-examination yet as “Mia,” the fourth alleged victim and a key government witness, faced a relentless grilling from defense attorney Brian Steel. Over three days, the courtroom was riveted by seven tense moments that could shape the outcome of the high-profile racketeering and sex trafficking case.

1. Mia’s Allegations and the Cross-Examination

Mia, who worked as Combs’s personal assistant from 2009 to 2017, testified that she was sexually assaulted by the music mogul on multiple occasions, including his 40th birthday at the Plaza Hotel in New York. She also claimed she was forced to work around the clock and witnessed Combs physically abuse Cassie Ventura. The government argues that Mia’s experiences constitute forced labor, a predicate act in the racketeering conspiracy charge.

During direct testimony, Mia’s account was so emotional that courtroom observers reported jurors and even spectators in tears. However, her demeanor shifted markedly under cross-examination, with Steel challenging the consistency and credibility of her statements.

2. The Scrapbook and the Loving Card

Steel pressed Mia about a scrapbook she made for Combs—ironically, on the same birthday she claims he sexually assaulted her. He asked, “Why would you, if you’re being sexually assaulted and your sister is being brutalized physically, make a scrapbook for Mr. Combs?” Mia replied, “It’s a lot more complicated than the way you phrase that. It’s called abuse on all levels.” Steel also pointed to a loving card Mia wrote for Combs, to which she responded, “Yes, I’m a very loving person,” even when asked if she would write such a card to someone who abused her.

3. The Birthday Video

A key moment came when the defense played a birthday video Mia recorded for Combs, in which she called him “the living legend himself” and said, “I am so blessed to call you my friend… I love you. Happy birthday.” Steel argued this showed a false persona and questioned the authenticity of Mia’s testimony. The jury watched closely, with some reportedly surprised at the stark difference between Mia’s demeanor in the video and her emotional testimony in court.

4. Text Messages and Ongoing Contact

Steel further challenged Mia with text messages she sent to Combs after leaving his employment, including messages offering support and expressing affection. Mia explained she was still under Combs’s psychological control at the time, which is why she maintained contact despite her allegations.

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5. Social Media and Public Persona

The defense highlighted Mia’s social media posts, including photos of Combs, to question why she would publicly praise a man she accused of abuse. Steel argued these posts contradicted her claims, while Mia insisted she was “acting” and trying to survive in a toxic environment.

6. The Timeline of Allegations

Steel scrutinized the timeline of Mia’s allegations, revealing that she met with federal prosecutors 27 times before disclosing the alleged sexual assaults—only after hiring a lawyer in June 2024. The defense implied this delay undermined her credibility, while Mia maintained she had confided in her therapist and was ashamed to come forward sooner.

7. The Government’s Redirect

On redirect, Assistant U.S. Attorney Madison Smiser asked Mia why she made the scrapbook and birthday video. Mia said it was part of her job and a way to keep Combs happy—and herself safe. She explained that many employees posted on social media about Combs as part of their roles. Mia also testified that testifying publicly was terrifying, but she did so for the sake of her goddaughters and other potential victims.

Jury’s Reaction and the Stakes Ahead

Courtroom observers noted that Steel’s cross-examination was sharp and effective, with some jurors appearing impressed by his performance and beginning to question Mia’s story. However, the government sought to reinforce Mia’s credibility by emphasizing the psychological complexities of abuse and the fear that kept her silent.

As the trial continues, the defense’s strategy to challenge the consistency and motives of alleged victims will be pivotal. Mia’s three days on the stand ended with a powerful statement: she testified so she could look her goddaughters in the eye and tell them to do the right thing if ever faced with a similar situation.

Sean Combs has pleaded not guilty to all charges and denies any wrongdoing.

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