Singer Casandra Ventura Fine, known professionally as Cassie, has urged supporters to believe victims of domestic violence “the first time”, after security footage was released depicting her then partner music mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs assaulting her.
The disturbing CCTV footage from 2016 was obtained and published by CNN last week, and corroborates the allegations of abuse and coercion Ventura made in a lawsuit in November last year. The civil case was settled almost immediately, with Combs’ lawyers issuing a statement stressing his innocence.
Since the security footage leaked, Combs has issued an apology but won’t be charged because the 2016 incident falls outside the statute of limitations.
“Thank you for all the love and support from my family, friends, strangers and those I have yet to meet,” Cassie wrote to her 10.4 million Instagram followers, on Thursday.
“The outpouring of love has created a place for my younger self to settle and feel safe now, but this is only the beginning.”
“Domestic Violence is THE issue,” Cassie went on to write.
“It broke me down to someone I never thought I would become.
“With a lot of hard work, I am better today, but I will always be recovering from my past.”
The 2016 surveillance footage depicts Cassie walking down a hallway with a bag in hand, in clear distress. Combs can be seen pursuing her, and when the pair are at the elevator, he grabs her neck and throws her to the ground.
Combs proceeds to kick her twice before grabbing her arm and dragging her back through the hallway.
Later footage shows Combs throwing a glass object in the hallway.
In her post, Cassie thanks everyone who has taken the matter seriously and says her “only ask is that EVERYONE open your heart to believing victims for the first time.”
“It takes a lot of heart to tell the truth out of a situation that you were powerless in.”
“I offer my hand to those that are still living in fear,” she goes on to write.
“Reach out to your people, don’t cut them off. No one should carry this weight alone.”
“The healing journey is never ending, but this support means everything to me. Thank you.”
Combs has had another federal lawsuit filed against him this week by model Crystal McKinney, accusing him of sexual assault.
In March, federal agents also raided Combs’ homes as part of a sex-trafficking investigation.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, chat online via 1800RESPECT.org.au or text 0458 737 732.
If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit www.ntv.org.au.