In a dramatic turn of events during Sean "Diddy" Combs' federal racketeering and sex trafficking trial, a hotel security guard testified that the music mogul paid him $100,000 to suppress a video showing Combs assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura. The trial, which has captivated audiences, resumed on Tuesday in New York City, with the prosecution aiming to establish that Combs used his business empire to create a criminal enterprise that coerced women into sexual acts and protected his public image.

Eddy Garcia, the former security officer at the Intercontinental Hotel in Los Angeles, recounted how he was approached by Combs' assistant shortly after the incident in March 2016. Garcia stated that Combs was deeply concerned about the video being released, fearing it would ruin his career. "He was concerned this video would get out and it would ruin his career," Garcia testified.

The video, which has been a focal point of the trial, shows Combs kicking and dragging Ventura during a violent altercation. Ventura, who has testified as the government's star witness, described her desperate attempt to escape Combs during one of his drug-fueled parties, referred to as "freak-offs."

"When I chose to leave, I grabbed what I could and I got out," Ventura said. "Sean followed me into the hallway before the elevators and grabbed me up, threw me on the ground, kicked me, [and] tried to drag me back to the room."

Combs has pleaded not guilty to all charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. His defense team has acknowledged the violence depicted in the video but argues that the allegations of a broader criminal conspiracy are unfounded.

Garcia testified that after the assault, he received a call from Kristina Khorram, Combs' assistant, who requested to view the security footage. Despite initially telling her that she would need to contact hotel management, Garcia later received a call from Combs himself, who was reportedly "nervous" and eager to secure the video. "He stated that I sounded like a good guy, that I sounded like I wanted to help, that something like this could ruin him," Garcia recalled.

After negotiations, Garcia agreed to deliver the video for $100,000. He described a meeting where Combs, appearing "smiling" and "excited," handed him the cash in stacks of $10,000. Garcia testified that he was instructed to sign a non-disclosure agreement and confirm that the video was the only existing copy.

The prosecution has characterized Combs' payment as a bribe, arguing it is indicative of a larger pattern of behavior where Combs allegedly used his wealth and influence to silence victims and protect his reputation. Garcia's testimony was bolstered by financial records presented in court, which included evidence of past payments made by Combs to Ventura's family, further suggesting a history of coercive financial dealings.

As the trial progresses, more witnesses are expected to take the stand, including a forensic video expert and other alleged victims. The courtroom remains tense as the jury hears testimony that could have significant implications for Combs' future.