A former personal assistant to the music executive currently facing federal charges including sex trafficking and racketeering has provided courtroom testimony about a past armed incident involving a rival industry figure.
The testimony, delivered this week, centered on a 2008 encounter at a Los Angeles diner. The witness, David James, stated that after a late studio session, he and a security guard were sent to retrieve food. Upon arrival, they allegedly spotted Suge Knight, the founder of Death Row Records, in the parking lot. Knight, who is currently incarcerated on unrelated charges, was described as standing with a firearm.
After the security guard briefly interacted with Knight, the two men returned to the music executive’s home. James testified that upon hearing of the encounter, the executive instructed James to drive him and the guard back to the diner. James stated that during this drive, the executive was seated in the back with three handguns in his lap.
However, upon their return, Knight was no longer at the location. James testified that this was the first time during his employment that he felt his life was in danger, noting he was previously unaware of any weapons. He stated he felt he had no choice but to comply with the directives given the circumstances. Shortly after this incident, James submitted his resignation.
The testimony emerged as part of the broader federal proceedings against the executive, who has pleaded not guilty to all charges. The defense questioned James about his role, to which he replied he was simply “there to drive the car.” The trial is ongoing.
