Sean "Diddy" Combs has filed an appeal with the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, requesting immediate release from prison and the overturning of his conviction on two prostitution-related crimes.
Combs' attorney, Alexandra Shapiro, characterized the 50-month prison sentence as "unlawful, unconstitutional, and a perversion of justice." She has requested that the appeals court either order a resentencing or dismiss the conviction in its entirety. The expedited appeal filing 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 prosecuted Combs, declined to comment on the request made to the Second Circuit Court of Appeals.
Federal prosecutors in New York had accused Combs of utilizing his financial resources, influence, and threats of violence to coerce women into unwanted sexual encounters.
During the trial, testimony was presented from two of Combs' former partners, Cassie Ventura and an individual identified as "Jane Doe." They alleged abuse and forced participation in "freak-offs" with male escorts.
The jury acquitted Combs of the more serious charges of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. However, he was convicted on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution.
Following his conviction in September, Combs' request for an acquittal or a new trial, citing objections regarding the application of the Mann Act, was unsuccessful.
Ahead of his sentencing, Combs' attorneys argued for a brief sentence, essentially amounting to time served, to facilitate a swift release. Conversely, prosecutors requested a prison sentence of at least 11 years.
U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian ultimately sentenced Combs to more than four years in prison. He stated that while he considered Combs' contributions to society and testimonials from family and friends, "a history of good works can't wash away your record."
Combs' appeal argues that Judge Subramanian did not properly follow sentencing guidelines when imposing the 50-month term. The filing further alleges that the judge "flouted" new guidelines and improperly considered conduct for which Combs had been acquitted when formulating his punishment. It claims the judge "acted as a thirteenth juror" in the case and characterizes the sentence as "draconian."
Before Judge Subramanian issued his sentence, Combs apologized to Ms. Ventura and "Jane," stating, "My actions were disgusting, shameful, and sick. I got lost in excess, I got lost in my ego."
Combs is also currently facing numerous pending civil lawsuits. These lawsuits allege sexual assault, rape, and sexual exploitation, with some detailing claims that the rapper or his associates drugged individuals at parties prior to alleged assaults, and that he used his fame and power to silence accusers through threats.
Representatives for Mr. Combs have consistently stated that he "never sexually assaulted or trafficked anyone - man or woman, adult or minor."