Attorney Spills: How the Judge Is Really Reacting to Diddy During Trial

The federal trial of hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs began in May 2025. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian is overseeing Combs’ federal sex trafficking and racketeering case. Judge Subramanian, known for his firm courtroom demeanor, has maintained strict control over the proceedings. As the case progresses, his rulings will continue to shape the course of this high-profile legal battle. So, how did Judge Subramanian react to the first week of legal proceedings? Here’s what an attorney shared with Showbiz Cheat Sheet.

Judge Arun Subramanian ‘acknowledged the emotional weight’ of Cassie’s testimony in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ trial

After jury selection, Sean “Diddy” Combs’ trial began with testimony from Casandra “Cassie” Ventura. Over several days in the first week, Ventura detailed years of alleged abuse, coercion, and manipulation during their 11-year relationship. She described being forced into participating in “freak offs” — drug-fueled sexual encounters with male sex workers. Ventura also recounted instances of physical assault, including a 2016 hotel incident where Combs allegedly kicked and dragged her, a moment captured on surveillance footage.

So, how did Judge Arun Subramanian react to Ventura’s testimony? Victor Balladares, Principal Attorney at Offit Kurman, said Subramanian “acknowledged the emotional weight” of the testimony but “maintained courtroom decorum.”

“Ventura’s testimony elicited a profound reaction within the courtroom,” Balladares commented to Showbiz Cheat Sheet. “Observers noted moments of silence and visible discomfort among jurors and attendees as she recounted harrowing experiences of abuse and control. The judge maintained courtroom decorum but acknowledged the emotional weight of the testimony. Media coverage highlighted the gravity of Ventura’s accounts, underscoring the potential impact on public perception and the trial’s outcome.”

Previously, Judge Subramanian reminded everyone in the courtroom to keep it professional. During a tense moment in trial, Judge Subramanian sharply rebuked defense attorney Mark Geragos for comments made on a podcast, where Geragos referred to the prosecution team as a “six-pack of white women.” The judge condemned the remarks as “outrageous” and “deeply inappropriate.”

How to get help: In the U.S., call the RAINN National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 to connect with a trained staff member from a sexual assault service provider in your area. 

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