Defense Highlights Contradictions in Social Media Posts
During the ongoing federal trial, Sean "Diddy" Combs’ legal team challenged the credibility of his former personal assistant, referred to as "Mia," by presenting her social media posts that praised Combs as a mentor and close friend well after the alleged assault.
Defense attorney Brian Steel questioned Mia about numerous Instagram posts spanning several years in which she portrayed a warm relationship with Combs. These posts appeared inconsistent with her testimony alleging toxic and frightening work conditions caused by Combs' alleged sexual misconduct.
Portrayals Versus Allegations
Mia read several posts aloud for the jury, stating that her social media created a positive image that did not reflect her true experiences. She described Instagram as a platform to display an idealized life despite personal hardships.
One notable post from 2013 celebrated Combs’ 44th birthday, depicting him as a doctor in a comedic video helping Mia deliver a fake baby. Accompanying the post was a caption calling Combs her mentor who enabled her to "give birth to my dreams." The defense emphasized this as inconsistent with her claims of abuse.
Allegations and Trial Context
Mia testified that in 2009, shortly after Combs forcibly kissed her at his 40th birthday party, he woke her to sexually assault her in his Los Angeles home. She described the assaults as intermittent, which contributed to her belief they might not recur.
She is the second of three women to provide testimony accusing Combs of sexual abuse amid federal charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy. Combs, 55, denies all allegations and faces potential life imprisonment if convicted.
Mia’s Continued Relationship with Combs
Despite the allegations, Mia’s posts include affectionate messages and acknowledgments of Combs’ positive influence. She admitted using endearing terms like "family" and "love" when communicating with colleagues and Combs, describing it as common workplace language.
Her attorney questioned why she would promote someone she accuses of causing trauma; Mia explained her social media presence reflected only the positive moments amid significant emotional turmoil.
Impact of Alleged Abuse on Mia’s Life
Having worked for Combs from 2009 to 2017, including an executive role at his film studio, Mia testified that she has not held employment since due to post-traumatic stress disorder.
She described how seemingly benign communications triggered anxiety and fear, recalling episodes such as throwing her phone away after receiving a call from Combs’ number following a 2023 lawsuit filed by his former girlfriend, Cassie.
Interference and Intimidation Concerns
Mia also testified about feeling threatened when a former Combs’ bodyguard contacted her, attempting to mediate between her and Combs. She expressed fear for her safety and the need to avoid direct contact to protect herself.
Combs reached a $20 million settlement with Cassie shortly after her lawsuit was filed. That suit initiated a federal criminal investigation leading to Combs’ indictment.
Trial Proceedings and Bail Decisions
Prosecutors have argued that Combs and his associates attempted to contact potential witnesses to dissuade cooperation or influence testimonies. This concern led to preservation of Combs’ bail denial, keeping him in custody since his arrest the previous September.
Throughout the trial, testimonies and evidence continue to unfold, highlighting complex dynamics between alleged victim and accused against the backdrop of high-profile legal scrutiny.
