Misa Hylton, the mother of Justin Combs, has spoken out for the first time about the video showing Diddy assaulting Cassie in 2016. She is the first person from Diddy’s family circle to address the incident, which went viral after being reported by CNN on May 17. Cassie has not made a public statement, but Diddy issued a general apology in a video, which was rejected by her lawyer shortly afterward.
In her Instagram statement, Misa expressed her sadness over the impact of the video on her younger children and herself, mentioning her own trauma. She empathized with Cassie’s experience without making specific accusations against her ex-boyfriend, instead wishing him “help.”
“I am heartbroken that Cassie must relive the horror of her abuse, and my heart goes out to her. I know exactly how she feels, and through my empathy, it has triggered my own trauma,” Misa wrote in her statement.
Misa, who had not previously spoken out about abuse allegations against Diddy, emphasized her commitment to supporting her children and expressed hope that their father would seek and receive the help he needs.
Her statement was posted with two photos of all of the Combs children — the sons in one photo and the daughters in the other.
The graphic video, which shows Diddy dragging, kicking, and throwing things at 19-year-old Cassie in a Los Angeles hotel hallway, has prompted strong reactions. Revolt, Diddy’s former record label, and former Bad Boy Records rapper Shyne have both issued statements severing ties with Diddy and condemning domestic violence. Other celebrities and former artists, including Cedric The Entertainer, Erica Campbell, and Aubrey O’Day, have also spoken out.
The abuse video supports one of Cassie’s allegations in her assault lawsuit against her ex-boyfriend. However, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced that they will not pursue charges against Diddy due to the statute of limitations on the crime.
