During the ongoing trial of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs in New York, disturbing video footage alleged to depict explicit “freak off” encounters was shown to the jury. Among those who allegedly participated in these sessions is male escort Sharay Hayes, known by his stage name ‘The Punisher’. Hayes has now spoken out, revealing his profound shock not only at the existence of the recordings but also at Combs’ alleged physical reaction in court upon viewing them.
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, 55, is currently facing serious charges including racketeering, sex trafficking, and transportation to engage in prostitution, allegations he vehemently denies. The trial has featured weeks of testimony and evidence, setting the stage for the showing of the graphic video clips earlier this week.
Reports indicate that the jury, comprising 12 men and women tasked with deciding Combs’ fate, exhibited visible reactions ranging from winces to apparent discomfort while watching the explicit footage. These videos allegedly included encounters involving singer Cassie Ventura and individuals described as male escorts, including ‘The Punisher’.
Shock at the Recordings’ Existence
Sharay Hayes claims he was allegedly paid to participate in these sessions, including one encounter in 2012 with Cassie Ventura that prosecutors highlighted in court. However, Hayes maintains he was completely unaware that these explicit moments were being filmed.
Speaking out after the court developments, Hayes expressed his astonishment. “Whatever video was taken was something that was done candidly without my knowledge,” he stated, adding, “I never saw any video or anything to that degree.” He found the revelation particularly surprising because, he claims, maintaining privacy was a strict requirement for these sessions, to the point where his phone was typically confiscated specifically to prevent recording. “The last thing I would have expected was for there to be photos or filming going on,” he said.
Cassie Ventura herself has provided extensive testimony in the trial, alleging she was forced to participate in hundreds of such “freak off” parties, describing it as a “job” that could last for days. She alleged Combs filmed these events for potential blackmail and that she used drugs to cope with participating.
Diddy’s Alleged Courtroom Display
Despite the shock of discovering that private encounters were allegedly recorded, Hayes pinpointed a different moment in court that truly left him “speechless”: Sean Combs’ reaction after reportedly viewing the explicit video clips privately.
Eyewitnesses in the Manhattan courtroom noted Combs’ alleged display as “disturbing” and “unusual,” describing actions such as smiling, rubbing his hands together, and licking his lips.
When asked about this specific behavior from Combs, Hayes reportedly provided a “no comment,” explaining, “My goodness… This is something I’d never say, but I think this is going to be my first no comment. I’m speechless!”
Personal Toll and Concerns
Having previously testified during the trial, Sharay Hayes also shared the significant personal impact of his involvement becoming public knowledge. He described the situation as “embarrassing,” acknowledging his choices but stating he never anticipated this level of exposure.
Concerned about the potential for the videos to be leaked online, Hayes voiced worry about “how public this can become, and how much is out there, and what type of issue that can create or embarrassment that may come from it.” He feels this public attention will follow him permanently, describing it as feeling like being on a “billboard in Times Square” whenever someone searches for his name.
Prosecutors are expected to call additional witnesses before resting their case. The trial is ongoing.
