Forensic psychologist Dawn Hughes testifies in Diddy sex trafficking trial, sheds light on victims' trauma
Clinical and forensic psychologist Dr. Dawn Hughes took the stand today in the federal sex trafficking trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs, offering jurors expert insight into the emotional and psychological toll of abusive long-term relationships. Her testimony marks a significant moment in the high-profile case, which continues to expose disturbing allegations against the music mogul.
'Sean Combs.'
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Hughes, a renowned expert in interpersonal violence and trauma, has served as an expert witness in landmark cases including those of R. Kelly, NXIVM cult leader Keith Raniere, and the Johnny Depp-Amber Heard defamation trial. Her appearance today served to contextualize the complex psychological dynamics at play in abusive relationships — dynamics that prosecutors allege were central to Combs’ interactions with ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura and others.
“Victims of domestic violence often remain with their abusers because they feel there are no better options,” Hughes testified, according to NBC News. She explained that victims typically fall into three psychological categories: feeling trapped, maintaining a traumatic emotional bond with the abuser, and perceiving the process of leaving as insurmountably difficult.
Hughes emphasized that shame and humiliation from sexual abuse often lead victims to silence, further entrapping them. This testimony aligns with Ventura’s previous statement that Combs allegedly threatened to leak explicit videos to prevent her from leaving or speaking out.
“Victims suffering from psychological abuse walk on eggshells,” Hughes noted. “They focus on how to stay safe in the moment rather than on long-term solutions like leaving.” She also described how financial control exacerbates the power imbalance. “If you don’t have money, you are left with a feeling of ‘Where am I going to go?’”
Under cross-examination, the defense highlighted that Hughes had not interviewed Combs or witnesses directly due to legal restrictions. Defense attorney Jonathan Bach also revealed Hughes was being compensated $600 per hour, though prosecutors countered by noting that she has been retained by both sides in previous trials.
Other witnesses in the ongoing trial include Cassie and her mother, former Danity Kane singer Dawn Richard, Diddy’s ex-assistant David James, hotel security guard Israel Florez, sex workers allegedly hired by Combs, and federal agent Gerard Gannon. Rapper Kid Cudi was expected to testify today, but his appearance has been postponed until tomorrow.
Combs faces multiple federal charges, including one count of racketeering conspiracy and two counts each of sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution. Arrested on September 16, 2024, in New York City, he remains detained without bail at MDC Brooklyn. If convicted, Combs could face a sentence ranging from 15 years to life in federal prison.
The trial continues to draw intense public scrutiny as the court hears from additional witnesses in the coming days.
