Diddy’s Lawyers Challenge Sentencing Decision
Attorneys representing Sean “Diddy” Combs have publicly criticized U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian for what they describe as an unfair and inconsistent sentence. The rapper and entrepreneur received 50 months in federal prison, five years of supervised release, and a $500,000 fine following convictions on two prostitution-related charges.
While Combs was acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering, his defense team argues that the judge’s sentence contradicts the jury’s findings.
“The jury made it very clear—they found him not guilty of the trafficking and RICO charges,” said lead attorney Teny Geragos in a statement to ABC News. “This sentence ignores that verdict.”
Defense Says Judge Ignored Jury’s Intent
Prosecutors had pushed for an 11-year sentence, describing Combs as “unrepentant.” The defense, however, requested 14 months, including the time he had already served. Despite this, Judge Subramanian imposed a sentence of just over four years, crediting Combs with 12 months of time served.
Attorney Alexandra Shapiro, who will lead the appeal, also criticized the judge’s decision, claiming that coercion, which the jury rejected, was improperly used to justify the punishment.
“The court acted like a 13th juror,” Shapiro argued. “The sentence was influenced by conduct the jury explicitly dismissed.”
Judge Defends Sentence as Message Against Abuse
Judge Subramanian explained his reasoning during the October 3 hearing, emphasizing that Combs’ history of violence, including incidents involving ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, factored heavily in his decision.
“The court cannot be assured that these crimes would not be repeated,” he stated. “This sentence is meant to send a clear message that violence against women carries real consequences.”
The judge’s remarks were seen as part of a broader message supporting domestic violence survivors, underscoring accountability regardless of fame or wealth.
Combs Expresses Remorse in Court
Before the sentence was read, Sean Combs addressed the court directly, acknowledging his wrongdoing and expressing deep regret for his actions.
“My actions were disgusting and shameful,” he said. “I was out of control, sick from drugs, and I didn’t get the help I needed. I’ve been humbled and broken to my core. I hate myself for what I’ve done.”
He went on to apologize to Cassie Ventura and another woman referred to as “Jane,” both of whom were central to the case.
“Domestic violence will always be a burden I carry,” Combs added. “Because of my actions, I lost my freedom, my businesses, and my reputation.”
Background: The Trial and Verdict
The 12-member jury found Combs guilty on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution but acquitted him on three major charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy.
The verdict followed 29 days of testimony, featuring 34 witnesses, including Ventura. Prosecutors argued that Combs had used “power, violence, and fear” to control those around him, while the defense maintained that his past behavior did not reflect who he is today.
Combs faced a potential life sentence if convicted on all counts, but his legal team viewed the split verdict as a partial victory.
Reaction From Cassie Ventura’s Lawyer
Following the sentencing, Douglas Wigdor, attorney for Ventura, commended his client for having the courage to come forward.
“Cassie’s decision to speak out in 2023 started this entire process,” Wigdor said. “Even though the jury didn’t convict on sex trafficking, her testimony helped deliver accountability.”
He praised her strength throughout the trial, adding that the case highlighted systemic abuse within the entertainment industry.
“This verdict sends a signal that power and fame cannot shield wrongdoing,” Wigdor said.
What Comes Next for Sean “Diddy” Combs
Combs’ defense team plans to appeal the 50-month sentence, arguing that the judge’s ruling misinterpreted the jury’s intent. Legal experts note that appeals of this nature can take several months, with a possibility that the sentence could be reduced.
Meanwhile, Combs remains incarcerated, serving time credited toward the new sentence.
Despite his apology and claims of personal change, the court’s decision reflects the ongoing struggle between judicial accountability and celebrity influence—a balance that continues to shape how justice is served in high-profile cases.
