Overview
- Attorney Melodie Han of Wigdor LLP filed a Dec. 11 Notice of Appearance for Cassie Ventura, confirming representation in Clayton Howard’s $20 million civil case.
- The case is moving forward after a federal judge authorized alternative service to Ventura’s counsel following unsuccessful attempts at personal service.
- In a Manhattan filing, Howard accuses prosecutors—naming former AUSA Maurene Comey—of exploiting his cooperation, denying Crime Victims’ Rights Act protections, and curbing testimony about Ventura.
- Howard points to a government sentencing memo that identified him as a victim, then says he was later told he did not qualify, citing unanswered letters and a response from AUSA Emily Johnson denying victim status.
- He says this dispute jeopardizes access to the Backpage Remission Program before a Feb. 2, 2026 deadline; Sean “Diddy” Combs is serving a 50‑month sentence after a July conviction for transporting individuals for prostitution.