Diddy’s Lawyer Asks Judge For Leniency In Sentencing
Lawyers for music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs urged a judge Monday to sentence him to no more than 14 months in prison for his conviction on two prostitution-related charges, meaning he would go free almost immediately if the judge agreed.
In a written submission, Combs’ legal team said he has already been punished enough.
“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 wrote to Judge Arun Subramanian, who is scheduled to decide the former hip-hop mogul’s sentence Oct. 3.
The court filing also provided new information about what Combs’ life has been like during his nearly 13 months behind bars, describing intense surveillance by guards and at least one threat of violence.
Combs was convicted in July of two violations of the Mann Act, which outlaws interstate commerce related to prostitution. Prosecutors said he arranged for paid sexual encounters between his girlfriends and male sex workers. Each count carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
The Bad Boy Records founder was acquitted of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking charges that could have led to a life sentence.
In their submission, Combs’ lawyers argued that the jury sent a message by exonerating Combs of the most serious charges.
“He has served over a year in one of the most notorious jails in America — yet has made the most of that punishment. It is time for Mr. Combs to go home to his family, so he can continue his treatment and try to make the most of the next chapter of his extraordinary life,” they added.
Prosecutors have said they will urge the judge to keep Combs locked up for years.
