Diddy's lawyers plan to argue "mutual violence." Will that strategy work?

Sean 'Diddy' Combs is on trial for sex trafficking and racketeering, pleading not guilty. His defense argues that his relationship with accuser Cassie Ventura involved 'mutual violence.' Experts including professor Laurie Levenson and author Bev Gooden challenge this claim, stating that 'mutual abuse' is not a legal defense and dilutes the seriousness of controlling behavior inherent to abusive dynamics. They emphasize the importance of recognizing power roles instead of equating conflict as mutual abuse. The case reflects ongoing debates on how abuse is legally and socially understood.

Agnifilo’s argument centers on 'mutual violence,' suggesting both Combs and Ventura engaged in abusive behavior, but legal experts dispute this as a valid defense.

Laurie Levenson emphasizes that 'mutual abuse' doesn't exist as a legal defense, stressing the distinction between abusive behavior and actions taken in self-defense.

Bev Gooden asserts that abuse involves a pattern of controlling behavior, arguing that identifying a 'mutual abuse' narrative undermines the reality of power dynamics in relationships.

Gooden concludes that context matters: understanding power dynamics is crucial in defining abuse versus mutual conflict.

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