Sean “Diddy” Combs’ legal team has requested that a judge impose a sentence of no more than 14 months in prison following his conviction on two prostitution-related charges. This sentence would allow the music mogul to potentially regain his freedom almost immediately. In a written submission filed with the court, his lawyers argued that Combs has faced sufficient punishment during his nearly 13 months of incarceration.
The submission, addressed to Judge Arun Subramanian, highlighted the severe impact of Combs’ legal troubles on his life. “Mr. Combs’s celebrity status in the realms of music, fashion, spirits, media, and finance has been shattered and Mr. Combs’s legacy has been destroyed,” the lawyers stated. Judge Subramanian is set to make a decision regarding Combs’ sentence on October 3.
Combs was convicted in July of violating the Mann Act, which prohibits interstate commerce related to prostitution. Prosecutors accused him of arranging paid sexual encounters between his girlfriends and male sex workers. Each count carries a maximum penalty of ten years in prison. Combs was acquitted of more serious charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, which could have led to a life sentence.
In their filing, Combs’ attorneys emphasized that the jury’s decision to acquit him of the most serious charges indicates a desire for leniency. “He has served over a year in one of the most notorious jails in America – yet has made the most of that punishment,” they wrote. They urged the court to allow Combs to return to his family so he can continue treatment and look towards the future.
Prosecutors, however, are expected to argue for a significantly harsher sentence, potentially keeping Combs incarcerated for several years. The conditions of his imprisonment have reportedly been harsh. According to his lawyers, he faced threats from other inmates, including an incident where one approached him with a shiv. Combs managed to diffuse the situation, his lawyers noted.
The legal team also reported that Combs has been under constant suicide watch, requiring him to show his identification card to guards every two hours. His living conditions have been described as deplorable, with frequent disruptions during sleep in a brightly lit cell. He reportedly has not experienced fresh air or sunlight in almost 13 months and is dealing with a painful knee injury that requires surgery.
The legal team’s account also pointed to the unsanitary conditions within the prison. “The food sometimes contains maggots,” they stated, underscoring the difficulties Combs has faced during his time in custody.
Despite these challenges, Combs has achieved sobriety for the first time in 25 years, according to his lawyers. They depicted him as a changed man who has come to understand the consequences of his past actions, particularly related to his drug use. “Without minimising Mr. Combs’s conduct, this is in many ways a ‘sex, drugs, and rock n’ roll’ story,” they asserted.
The trial included testimony from two former girlfriends of Combs, including R&B singer Cassandra “Cassie” Ventura. Ventura described instances of physical violence, while another ex-girlfriend, referred to as “Jane,” recounted feeling pressured to engage in sexual acts with male sex workers.
Combs’ lawyers portrayed him as “a humbled man,” citing his reflections to a probation officer. He reportedly acknowledged that he once believed “success and money gave me freedom to do whatever I wanted to do with no real consequences.”
As the legal proceedings continue, the outcome of Combs’ sentencing remains uncertain, with both sides preparing to present their arguments in the coming weeks.
