This story contains graphic descriptions that some readers may find disturbing. Sean "Diddy" Combs' drug-fueled atmosphere of alleged abuse is being further revealed as more witnesses take the stand in hisongoing criminal trial. A select group of witnesses returned to Manhattan court on May 22 as prosecutors continue to build their case against the embattled hip-hop mogul. The previous day, federal agent Gerard Gannon appeared for testimony and described the massiveMarch 2024 raid on Combs' Miami mansion, during which authorities found illegal drugs, weapons and more. Gannon was joined bypsychologist Dawn Hughes, who explained the complexities of physical, sexual and psychological abuse, as well as George Kaplan, a former assistant alleging a hostile work environment under the Bad Boy Records founder. Scott Mescudi, better known as rapperKid Cudi, will alsotake the standin the coming days. Combsallegedly threatenedthe musician after he and Diddy's former girlfriendCassie Ventura Finedated briefly over a decade ago. Combs, 55, wasarrested in September 2024and charged with sex trafficking, racketeering and transportation to engage in prostitution. He has pleaded not guilty. Diddy on trial newsletter:Step inside the courtroom as music mogul faces sex-crimes charges. Combs is facing federal sex-crimes and trafficking charges in a sprawling lawsuit that has eroded his status as a power player and kingmaker in the entertainment industry. He wasarrested in September 2024and has been charged with racketeering, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution. He haspleaded not guiltyto all five counts. Racketeering is the participation in an illegal scheme under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Statute, or RICO, as a way for the U.S. government to prosecute organizations that contribute to criminal activity. Using RICO law, which is typically aimed attargeting multi-person criminal organizations,prosecutors allegethat Combs coerced victims, some of whom they say were sex workers, through intimidation and narcotics to participate in "freak offs" — sometimes dayslong sex performances that federal prosecutors claim they have video of. The trial will not be televised, as cameras are typically not allowed in federal criminal trial proceedings. USA TODAY will be reporting live from the courtroom. Contributing: USA TODAY staff If you are a survivor of sexual assault,RAINNoffers support through the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673) andHotline.RAINN.organd en EspañolRAINN.org/es. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text "START" to 88788. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:Diddy trial updates: Sean Combs' atmosphere of alleged abuse revealed
