CNN Denies Altering Video of Diddy Attacking Cassie in Hotel Hallway

CNN Denies Allegations of Altering Video Footage Involving Sean "Diddy" Combs

In a recent court filing related to Sean "Diddy" Combs’ federal indictment, the rap mogul’s legal team has accused CNN of altering video footage that appears to show Diddy attacking his then-girlfriend, Cassie, in a hotel hallway. According to the filing obtained by TMZ on Thursday, March 13, Diddy’s lawyers claim that CNN purchased the only known copy of the hotel’s surveillance footage, edited it using free software, and then destroyed the original footage. They allege that CNN’s edits included covering the timestamp, changing the video sequence, and speeding up the footage to make Diddy’s actions appear more aggressive and faster than they actually were. The defense team argues that these alterations misrepresent the events in question.

CNN Responds to the Allegations

CNN has denied these claims, stating that they did not alter the video or destroy the original copy, which they claim was retained by the source. In a statement to TMZ, CNN said, "CNN never altered the video and did not destroy the original copy of the footage, which was retained by the source. CNN aired the story about the video several months before Combs was arrested." However, Diddy’s lawyers maintain that CNN destroyed the original video file they received from their source. This discrepancy has raised questions about the integrity of the evidence and the role of the media in reporting such sensitive matters.

The Viral Video and Diddy’s Public Apology

The controversial video in question, which shows Diddy assaulting Cassie in a hotel hallway in 2016, went viral when CNN aired it in May 2024. Following the release of the footage, Diddy took to Instagram to issue a public apology. In the video, Diddy expressed remorse for his actions, stating, "It’s difficult to reflect on the darkest times in your life, sometimes you gotta do that. I was f—ked up. I mean, I hit rock bottom but I make no excuses. My behavior on that video is inexcusable. I take full responsibility for my actions in that video. I’m disgusted." Diddy also shared that he had sought professional help, including therapy and rehab, and was committed to becoming a better person. He emphasized that he was not asking for forgiveness but was truly sorry for his actions.

Diddy’s Current Legal Troubles

Diddy is currently being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York, awaiting trial on serious federal charges, including sex trafficking, racketeering, conspiracy, and transportation to engage in prostitution. These charges stem from his arrest in September 2024. Diddy has denied all allegations against him, and his trial is set to begin on May 5. His lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, has expressed disappointment with the decision to pursue what he believes is an unjust prosecution. In a statement to Us Weekly in September, Agnifilo described Diddy as a "music icon, self-made entrepreneur, loving family man, and proven philanthropist" who has spent his career building an empire and supporting the Black community. While acknowledging that Diddy is imperfect, Agnifilo insists that he is not a criminal.

Additional Lawsuits Against Diddy

In addition to the federal charges, Diddy is facing dozens of lawsuits from individuals who claim he harmed and exploited them through the use of drugs, alcohol, and physical abuse. These lawsuits add another layer of complexity to Diddy’s legal troubles, further tarnishing his public image. Diddy has denied these allegations as well, maintaining his innocence and asserting that he is the victim of a coordinated effort to tarnish his reputation.

Conclusion

The case involving Sean "Diddy" Combs has sparked significant public interest and debate, particularly regarding the role of media in reporting on sensitive legal matters. While Diddy’s legal team accuses CNN of unethical practices in editing the surveillance footage, CNN maintains its innocence, asserting that it did not alter or destroy the original video. As Diddy awaits trial and faces multiple lawsuits, the outcome of these legal proceedings will have a profound impact on his future and legacy. For now, the focus remains on the integrity of the evidence and the fairness of the justice system in handling such high-profile cases.