Cassie Lawsuit Settlement Amount, $20 Million Details Revealed, Legal Timeline and What It Means for Sexual Assault Cases
Cassie Ventura revealed during Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial on May 14, 2025, that she settled her 2023 civil lawsuit for $20 million—the first public disclosure of the settlement amount. On July 2, 2025, Combs was acquitted of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking charges but found guilty of two counts of transportation for prostitution. He was sentenced on October 3, 2025, to four years and two months in prison with a $500,000 fine.
The $20 Million Settlement: What We Know Now
Cassie and Diddy reached a settlement just one day after she filed the lawsuit in November 2023, making it one of the fastest major settlements in American legal history.
Settlement Amount Disclosure
The $20 million figure was revealed when Cassie testified during Diddy’s criminal trial that she initially asked for $30 million for rights to a book she was writing about her experiences as part of her trauma therapy. When asked how much she wanted for the book, Cassie said she asked for $30 million, but ultimately settled her lawsuit for $20 million within 24 hours.
Court documents confirmed Cassie accepted an eight-figure settlement after she filed her lawsuit, though the precise details of whether the agreed amount matched Diddy’s alleged original offer were not indicated.
Why the Amount Stayed Secret Until 2025
According to The New York Times, both sides reached an agreement on November 17, 2023, however, the details of the settlement were not disclosed. Most high-profile settlements include confidentiality clauses that prevent parties from publicly discussing settlement terms.
The amount only became public because Ventura’s testimony at Combs’ federal criminal trial marked the first time the settlement amount had been publicly revealed.
Timeline: From Lawsuit Filing to Criminal Conviction
November 16, 2023: Lawsuit Filed Under Adult Survivors Act
Cassie filed her lawsuit under New York’s Adult Survivors Act on November 16, 2023, just days before the one-year lookback window closed on November 24, 2023. The Act allowed alleged victims of sexual offenses for which the statute of limitations had lapsed to file civil suits for a one-year period from November 24, 2022, to November 24, 2023.
The lawsuit alleged that Combs raped Ventura in her own home after she tried to leave him, often punched, beat, kicked and stomped on her, forced her to engage in sex acts with male sex workers, demanded she carry his firearm in her purse, and introduced her to a lifestyle of excessive alcohol.
November 17, 2023: Settlement Reached in 24 Hours
The lawsuit was settled one day after it was filed, with both artists announcing the agreement on Friday, November 17, 2023.
Cassie’s Statement: “I have decided to resolve this matter amicably on terms that I have some level of control. I want to thank my family, fans, and lawyers for their unwavering support”.
Combs’ Statement: “We have decided to resolve this matter amicably. I wish Cassie and her family all the best. Love”.
Attorney’s Response: One day after Diddy settled with Cassie, Diddy’s lawyer, Ben Brafman, stated that the settlement isn’t an admission of wrongdoing, saying the settlement was not an admission of wrongdoing and that his decision to settle did not undermine his flat-out denial of the claims.
May 2024: Hotel Video Surfaces
CNN obtained exclusive hotel surveillance footage on May 18, 2024, that allegedly showed Combs brutally beating Ventura in a hotel hallway in Los Angeles in 2016. The video is likely the reason Combs settled so quickly with Ventura in November 2023, as he allegedly paid $50,000 to the hotel for it not to be leaked, according to Ventura’s lawsuit.
September 2024: Federal Indictment
On September 16, 2024, Sean Combs was arrested and charged in a three-count indictment with racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation to engage in prostitution. The indictment alleged that between 2008 and the present, Combs abused, threatened, and coerced women and others, and led a racketeering conspiracy that engaged in sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice.
May 14-15, 2025: Cassie’s Trial Testimony
Cassie Ventura testified during Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial, spending four hours and 50 minutes on the stand delivering testimony about the alleged abuse during their relationship. During this testimony, she revealed the $20 million settlement amount for the first time.
July 2, 2025: Criminal Trial Verdict
On July 2, 2025, after three days of deliberation, the jury found Combs not guilty of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking charges, but guilty on two counts of transportation for the purposes of prostitution.
October 3, 2025: Sentencing
On October 3, 2025, Combs was sentenced to four years and two months in prison and a $500,000 fine, to be followed by five years of supervised release.
Why the Settlement Happened So Fast
Statute of Limitations Pressure
Attorney Neama Rahmani told Us Weekly that this had to be one of the fastest settlements in American history, stating “we’re talking about one day,” and that the reason the lawsuit was settled was probably the reason it was filed in the first place—Cassie ran out of time.
Some of Cassie’s allegations were a little bit older, meaning the statute of limitations had run out, but in New York there was a law that opened the statute of limitations to file civil lawsuits in sexual assault cases.
Reputational Considerations
Rahmani explained that for someone like Diddy who was reportedly worth almost $1 billion, writing a check for $10 or even $20 million to save his reputation and avoid litigation with someone he was in a relationship with for so long was probably the right decision.
Attorney Neama Rahmani asserted that the statute of limitations for cases of this nature was approaching, so Cassie had a short window of opportunity to file against the music mogul.
Legal Framework: Understanding the Civil Case
Federal Court Jurisdiction
The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, the same federal court that later prosecuted Combs’ criminal case.
Claims Alleged in Civil Lawsuit
The 35-page complaint accused Combs of:
- Rape and sexual assault
- Physical abuse and battery
- Sex trafficking
- Forced drug use
- Forced participation in sexual acts with male sex workers while being filmed
- Controlling behavior and isolation from support networks
- Emotional abuse
The lawsuit alleged Combs brought Ventura into his ostentatious, fast-paced, and drug-fueled lifestyle soon after she met him and signed to his label in 2005, when she was 19 and he was 37. Ventura said Combs began a pattern of abuse as soon as their on-and-off relationship began in 2007.
Blackmail Allegations Denied
Combs’ attorney Ben Brafman said Combs offered Ventura eight figures to silence her and prevent the lawsuit from being filed, but Wigdor responded that she rejected his efforts and decided to give a voice to all women who suffer in silence.
An attorney for Diddy alleged Cassie attempted to blackmail Diddy for $30 million, but Diddy countered with eight figures to silence her and prevent the filing of the lawsuit.
Settlement Terms and Confidentiality
What Standard Settlement Agreements Include
Most civil settlement agreements include:
Confidentiality Clauses: Restrict parties from discussing settlement terms, amount, or underlying allegations
Non-Admission Clauses: When the lawsuit was quickly settled, Brafman said in a statement that a decision to settle a lawsuit, especially in 2023, is in no way an admission of wrongdoing, and that his client’s decision to settle does not undermine his flat-out denial of the claims
Non-Disparagement Provisions: Attorney Neama Rahmani told Us that ultimately there’s going to be confidentiality and non-disparagement provisions, so no one’s going to say anything
Release of Claims: Prevents further lawsuits related to the same allegations
Why Defendants Seek Confidentiality
Confidentiality clauses benefit defendants by:
- Preventing reputational damage
- Avoiding copycat lawsuits from other potential claimants
- Maintaining negotiating leverage in future cases
- Keeping sensitive information from public scrutiny
Why the Amount Became Public
The $20 million figure only became public because Cassie testified in the criminal trial, where she was compelled to answer questions under oath. Criminal proceedings override civil settlement confidentiality agreements when testimony is legally required.
Impact on Criminal Case
Settlement Did Not Prevent Criminal Prosecution
The federal indictment charged Combs with racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation for prostitution based on allegations involving multiple victims including Ventura.
The civil settlement had no bearing on the federal government’s ability to prosecute criminal charges.
Cassie’s Role as Star Witness
Cassie was called to testify as a star witness as part of Diddy’s ongoing trial in New York City, where during the first two days of her testimony, she relayed a litany of allegations about emotional, physical and sexual abuse during her relationship with Diddy.
Combs’ former girlfriend Cassie Ventura was the first witness called by prosecutors, whom Combs was seen physically assaulting in a widely circulated hotel surveillance video from 2016.
Criminal Trial Outcome
Combs was found guilty of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, with each count carrying a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. Prosecutors said their preliminary calculations indicated Combs should get at least 51 to 63 months imprisonment on the two convictions, or a sentence of roughly four to five years.
As the jury foreperson announced not guilty on the racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking charge involving Ventura, Combs put his hand to his face, but when he heard guilty for the first prostitution-related charge, he was startled.
New York’s Adult Survivors Act: Why It Mattered
Historic Lookback Window
The Adult Survivors Act was New York State legislation enacted in May 2022 which amended state law to allow alleged victims of sexual offenses for which the statute of limitations had lapsed to file civil suits for a one-year period, from November 24, 2022, to November 24, 2023.
The Act provided a one-year lookback window for people to seek civil remedies for sexual abuse they experienced after they turned 18, regardless of what year the abuse occurred.
Impact on Filing Decisions
E. Jean Carroll brought and won damages in a lawsuit against Donald Trump under this window, which was related to an incident in the mid-1990s.
When the Adult Survivors Act’s lookback window closed on November 24, 2023, over 3,000 suits had been filed.
Why Cassie Filed When She Did
The reason the lawsuit was settled was probably the reason it was filed in the first place—Cassie ran out of time, as the statute of limitations for cases of this nature was approaching.
Cassie filed her lawsuit just 8 days before the November 24, 2023, deadline, maximizing her negotiating leverage while ensuring she met the legal deadline.
What This Settlement Means for Similar Cases
Precedent for High-Profile Settlements
The Cassie-Diddy settlement demonstrates several patterns in celebrity sexual assault litigation:
Speed of Resolution: High-profile defendants often settle quickly to avoid prolonged media scrutiny and potential criminal exposure
Settlement Amounts: Eight-figure settlements are common when accusers have substantial evidence and credible allegations against wealthy defendants
Criminal Implications: Civil settlements do not prevent criminal prosecution, as demonstrated by Combs’ subsequent federal indictment
Impact on Entertainment Industry
Federal prosecutor Christy Slavik argued that Combs used power, violence and fear to get what he wanted, stating he doesn’t take no for an answer and that it was his kingdom where everyone was there to serve him.
The case highlights how power dynamics in the entertainment industry can enable abuse over extended periods.
Encouraging Other Survivors
Douglas Wigdor, Ventura’s attorney, stated that by coming forward with her experience, Cassie has left an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and the fight for justice, showing exemplary courage throughout the trial and bringing attention to the realities of powerful men and misconduct that has persisted for decades without repercussion.
Broader Legal Context: Product of #MeToo Era
Timing and Cultural Moment
The Adult Survivors Act added critical energy to the ongoing momentum of the #MeToo movement, allowing survivors to file suit against both their abusers and the institutions that enabled them.
The law acknowledged that trauma from sexual assault can prevent survivors from coming forward immediately.
Comparison to Similar Cases
The Combs case drew comparisons to the 2021 federal trial against R&B singer R. Kelly, in which Kelly was convicted of sexual exploitation of a child, bribery, racketeering and sex trafficking involving five victims, with prosecutors successfully arguing that Kelly’s musical career and income sustained his crimes and that his employees knew about and enabled his crimes.
The 58-year-old Kelly is serving a 31-year sentence in federal prison.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much did Cassie settle her lawsuit for?
Cassie settled her lawsuit against Diddy for $20 million within 24 hours of filing it. This amount was revealed during her testimony at Combs’ federal criminal trial in May 2025.
Q: Why did the settlement happen so quickly?
Attorney Neama Rahmani explained this was one of the fastest settlements in American history because Cassie ran out of time—the statute of limitations was approaching, and New York had opened a limited window to file civil lawsuits in sexual assault cases.
Q: Did the settlement prevent criminal charges?
No. Despite the civil settlement, Combs was arrested in September 2024 and charged with racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation for prostitution. Civil settlements do not prevent federal criminal prosecution.
Q: What was the verdict in the criminal case?
On July 2, 2025, Combs was found not guilty of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking charges, but guilty on two counts of transportation for the purposes of prostitution. He was sentenced on October 3, 2025, to four years and two months in prison and a $500,000 fine.
Q: Can others still sue Diddy for similar allegations?
The Adult Survivors Act window closed November 24, 2023. However, new allegations within the current statute of limitations (20 years for adult sexual assault in New York as of 2019) can still be filed. Multiple other civil lawsuits have been filed against Combs.
Q: What is the Adult Survivors Act?
The Adult Survivors Act is New York State legislation that allowed alleged victims of sexual offenses for which the statute of limitations had lapsed to file civil suits for a one-year period, from November 24, 2022, to November 24, 2023.
Q: Did Diddy admit wrongdoing?
When the lawsuit was quickly settled, attorney Ben Brafman stated that a decision to settle a lawsuit is in no way an admission of wrongdoing, and that his client’s decision to settle does not undermine his flat-out denial of the claims.
Q: Why didn’t we know the settlement amount until 2025?
Most settlement agreements include confidentiality clauses preventing parties from discussing terms. The amount only became public when Cassie testified under oath during Combs’ criminal trial, where she was legally compelled to answer questions.
Key Takeaways for Sexual Assault Survivors
Legal Options Available
Statute of Limitations: Check your state’s current statute of limitations for civil sexual assault claims. Many states have extended these timelines in recent years.
Lookback Windows: Some states periodically open lookback windows allowing older claims to be filed. Monitor legislative developments in your jurisdiction.
Criminal vs. Civil Cases: You can pursue both civil and criminal cases. Civil settlements do not prevent criminal prosecution by government authorities.
Documentation Matters
If you have experienced sexual assault:
- Seek medical attention and preserve medical records
- Document incidents in writing with dates and details
- Preserve text messages, emails, and other communications
- Take photographs of injuries
- Identify potential witnesses
- Consult with an attorney specializing in sexual assault cases
Finding Legal Representation
Look for attorneys with experience in:
- Sexual assault and abuse cases
- High-profile litigation
- Working with trauma survivors
- Understanding confidentiality and media exposure
- Navigating both civil and criminal proceedings
Resources for Sexual Assault Survivors
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): www.rainn.org
Time’s Up Legal Defense Fund: Provides legal and public relations support for sexual harassment and assault survivors
State Bar Associations: Can provide referrals to attorneys specializing in sexual assault litigation
Last Updated: December 2025. Information based on court testimony, federal court documents, verified news sources, and legal filings. The criminal case has concluded with sentencing in October 2025.
Important: This article provides general information about the Cassie lawsuit settlement and does not constitute legal advice. If you are a survivor of sexual assault, consult with a qualified attorney about your specific situation and legal options.
About the Author
Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
Her writing blends real legal insight with plain-English explanations, helping readers stay informed and legally aware.
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