Dawn Richard says “Diddy punched Cassie, Usher was there”
Dawn Richard’s Shocking Testimony
Dawn Richard, a former Bad Boy Records artist, testified on May 16 and 19, 2025, in Diddy’s federal trial, claiming she saw him punch Cassie Ventura in the stomach at a 2010 restaurant incident, with Usher present. She also alleged witnessing a 2009 assault with a skillet, followed by threats from Diddy.
Who is Dawn Richard? From Danity Kane to Key Witness
Dawn Angeliqué Richard, born August 5, 1983, in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a singer, songwriter, and actress whose career began with MTV’s Making the Band 3 in 2004. A popular show, that helped redefine reality television. She secured a spot in Danity Kane, formed under Diddy’s Bad Boy Records, achieving success with hits like “Show Stopper” and “Damaged” before the group’s 2009 disbandment. Richard then joined Diddy – Dirty Money, releasing Last Train to Paris (2010), blending hip-hop and R&B.
Post-Bad Boy, she pursued a solo career as DΔWN, later DAWN, with critically acclaimed albums like Goldenheart (2013), Blackheart (2015), and Redemption (2016), experimenting with electronic influences. Her later works, New Breed (2019) and Second Line (2021), received praise for innovation. In September 2024, Richard filed a lawsuit against Diddy for sexual abuse, as reported by The New York Times, making her testimony a courageous step from protégé to accuser, enhancing her credibility.
The Trial of the Century
The federal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs, a prominent figure in hip-hop and entertainment, has reached a critical juncture with the testimony of Dawn Richard, a former Bad Boy Records artist and member of Danity Kane and Diddy – Dirty Money. On May 16 and 19, 2025, Richard took the stand in the Southern District of New York, alleging she witnessed Diddy physically assault his ex-girlfriend, Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, on multiple occasions, including a 2010 incident at a restaurant where singer Usher was present.
This testimony, part of a broader case involving charges of sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation for prostitution, has intensified public and legal scrutiny on Combs. As of 07:37 PM CDT on May 19, 2025, the trial is ongoing, with Richard’s accounts adding significant weight to the prosecution’s narrative. This report provides a comprehensive, user-centric analysis, aligning with Google’s Helpful Content Update (HCU) and January 2025 Core Updates, to address user intent for clear, factual, and empathetic insights.
Dawn Richard’s Testimony: Detailed Allegations and Context
Dawn Richard’s testimony, covered by outlets like NBC News, The Washington Post, and CNN, provided chilling details of two specific incidents. On May 16, she described a 2010 event at a restaurant where Diddy and Cassie were arguing quietly in a private room. Richard alleged Diddy suddenly punched Cassie in the stomach, leaving her visibly shaken, and noted that other celebrities, including Usher, were present, though she did not specify their reactions. This claim, reported by AP News has sparked significant interest, raising questions about bystander roles in alleged abuse.
Additionally, on May 19, Richard recounted a 2009 incident at Diddy’s Los Angeles home, where she claimed he attacked Cassie with a skillet full of eggs, as detailed by Pitchfork. She further testified that Diddy threatened her afterward, warning her not to speak about what she had seen, a claim challenged by defense attorney Nicole Westmoreland, who pointed out inconsistencies in prior statements to prosecutors. Despite this, Richard maintained her account, stating Diddy said, “where he comes from, people go missing,” highlighting the alleged intimidation.
These allegations align with Cassie Ventura’s four-day testimony, where she detailed a decade of physical and sexual abuse, including coerced “Freak Offs,” as reported by AP News. Richard’s credibility is enhanced by her long-standing relationship with Diddy, having worked under his label and collaborated in musical projects, making her a compelling witness in the prosecution’s case.
The Diddy Trial: Charges and Current Status
Sean “Diddy” Combs, born November 4, 1969, faces five criminal counts: racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion, and two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. Charges that are still a shock to the entertainment and music world. Arrested on September 16, 2024, he has pleaded not guilty and remains detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. In addition to being denied bail three times. The trial, starting May 5, 2025, follows Cassie Ventura’s 2023 lawsuit, settled for $20 million, and subsequent allegations.
Cassie’s testimony, spanning four days and nearly 20 hours, detailed abuse, corroborated by a 2016 hotel video. The video, which was illegally leaked, shows Diddy physically assaulting Cassie. Richard’s testimony adds to this, with the trial ongoing as of May 19, 2025, potentially facing 15 years to life if convicted. However, Diddy’s legal team, led by Erica Wolff, insists on his innocence, emphasizing evidence-based proceedings.
Public Reaction and Industry Implications
Public sentiment, as seen on X, is divided. Posts like #Justice4Cassie praise Richard and Cassie’s courage. While others, like #DiddyDefender2, question motives, citing Diddy’s philanthropy. Documentaries like Peacock’s Diddy: The Making of a Bad Boy have fueled debate, with Diddy’s team filing a defamation lawsuit against NBCUniversal in February 2025. However, this current trial may effect the outcome of the defamation lawsuit.
Richard’s mention of Usher’s presence has sparked speculation. With social media users debating his role in this situation. This highlights music industry complicity. A theme echoed by attorney Tony Buzbee’s October 2024 announcement of 120 additional lawsuits. With some additionally naming bystanders. The trial could prompt systemic changes, addressing power dynamics and abuse. In addition to highlighting the power behind accountability. Especially from those in a position where accountability is not required or forced.
The Future Of Music’s “Bad Boy”
Dawn Richard’s testimony, alleging Diddy’s abuse of Cassie with Usher present, has intensified scrutiny in his federal trial. As of May 19, 2025, the trial’s outcome remains uncertain, but her accounts may influence the jury. Further highlighting music industry accountability. Potential verdicts could reshape Diddy’s legacy and spur industry reforms. With ongoing developments to watch, including possible celebrity testimonies and additional lawsuits. Nonetheless, this trial is taking the world of entertainment into a deep conversation.