Sean "Diddy" Combs has filed an appeal requesting an immediate release from prison and the overturning of his conviction on two prostitution-related charges. This action represents the latest legal effort by his defense team to reduce his sentence or nullify the conviction.
Appeal Arguments
Combs' attorney, Alexandra Shapiro, has characterized the 50-month prison sentence as "unlawful, unconstitutional, and a perversion of justice." In a filing for an expedited appeal to the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, Shapiro asked the court to mandate a resentencing or, alternatively, to vacate the conviction entirely. The appeal asserts that Combs was improperly sentenced and that the conduct leading to his conviction was not criminal in nature. The Southern District of New York, which handled the prosecution, has not commented on the appeal request.
Prior Conviction and Trial
Combs was convicted of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution following a trial where federal prosecutors accused him of leveraging his influence and the threat of violence to compel women into sexual encounters. The jury acquitted him of the more severe charges of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. During the trial, two former partners, Cassie Ventura and a witness identified as "Jane Doe," provided testimony regarding alleged abuse and forced participation in "freak-offs" with male escorts.
Sentencing Background
In September, subsequent to his conviction, Combs sought an acquittal or a new trial from Judge Arun Subramanian, citing objections to the application of the Mann Act, an anti-prostitution statute, in his prosecution. This request was denied.
Prior to his sentencing, Combs' legal team advocated for a brief sentence, equivalent to time already served. Conversely, prosecutors requested a prison term of at least 11 years. US District Judge Arun Subramanian ultimately sentenced Combs to 50 months in prison. Judge Subramanian stated that while he considered Combs' societal contributions and testimonials from supporters, "a history of good works can't wash away your record."
Challenges to Sentencing Guidelines
The current appeal specifically contends that Judge Subramanian did not adhere to established sentencing guidelines. It alleges that the judge "flouted" new guidelines and improperly factored in conduct for which Combs had been acquitted when determining the punishment. The filing further suggests the judge "acted as a thirteenth juror" and describes the 50-month sentence as "draconian."
Public Statement and Civil Lawsuits
Before the sentencing, Combs issued an apology to Ms. Ventura and "Jane Doe," stating, "My actions were disgusting, shameful, and sick. I got lost in excess, I got lost in my ego."
Combs is also facing numerous pending civil lawsuits, which include allegations of sexual assault, rape, and sexual exploitation. Some lawsuits claim that Combs utilized his fame and power to silence accusers through threats and that individuals associated with him allegedly drugged people at parties before assaults. Representatives for Mr. Combs have consistently maintained that he "never sexually assaulted or trafficked anyone – man or woman, adult or minor."