Sean 'Diddy' Combs Files Appeal for Immediate Prison Release

Appeal Details

Sean "Diddy" Combs has filed an appeal requesting immediate release from prison and the overturning of his conviction for two prostitution-related crimes. His attorney, Alexandra Shapiro, has asked an appeals court to either order a resentencing or dismiss the conviction entirely.

The appeal argues that Combs' 50-month prison sentence is unlawful and unconstitutional, contending he was improperly sentenced and that the conduct leading to his conviction was not criminal. The Southern District of New York, which prosecuted Combs, has not commented on the appeal filed with the Second Circuit Court of Appeals.

Conviction and Sentencing Background

Federal prosecutors in New York accused Combs of leveraging his financial resources, influence, and the threat of violence to compel women into non-consensual sexual encounters.

During the trial, testimony was presented by two individuals, identified as Cassie Ventura and "Jane Doe." They stated that Combs subjected them to abuse and forced participation in events described as "freak-offs" involving male escorts.

The jury acquitted Combs of the more severe 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 petitioned Judge Arun Subramanian for an acquittal or a new trial. This request cited objections regarding the application of the Mann Act, an anti-prostitution statute, in his prosecution, but it was not granted.

Prior to sentencing, Combs' legal team advocated for a brief sentence, essentially amounting to time already served. Conversely, prosecutors sought a prison term of at least 11 years. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian ultimately sentenced Combs to 50 months in prison. In his decision, Judge Subramanian acknowledged Combs' societal contributions and testimonials from supporters but stated that "a history of good works can't wash away your record."

Grounds for Appeal

The appeal contends that Judge Subramanian did not adhere to sentencing guidelines when determining the 50-month prison term. It alleges that the judge disregarded new guidelines and inappropriately considered conduct for which Combs had been acquitted during the sentencing process. The filing characterizes the judge's actions as "acting as a thirteenth juror" and labels the sentence "draconian."

Related Legal Actions

Before his 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 currently subject to multiple pending civil lawsuits. These lawsuits contain allegations of sexual assault, rape, and sexual exploitation. Many claim that Combs utilized his public profile and power to silence accusers through intimidation. Some lawsuits detail allegations that the rapper or his associates drugged individuals at parties prior to alleged assaults. Representatives for Mr. Combs have consistently denied these accusations, asserting that he "never sexually assaulted or trafficked anyone – man or woman, adult or minor."