Elizabeth Williams via AP
Sean “Diddy” Combs was sentenced to four years and two months in prison by Judge Arun Subramanian in New York on Friday, capping a dramatic trial that stripped away the glossy veneer of one of hip hop’s most powerful figures. The judge also fined Combs $500,000 and ordered 5 years of supervision.
The disgraced mogul was convicted in July on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution under the Mann Act, crimes that each carry a maximum of 10 years in prison.
Combs was acquitted on racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking charges, but prosecutors said the guilty verdicts were enough to warrant a severe penalty.
The case centered on testimony from his former partner, singer Cassie Ventura, and an anonymous woman identified in court as “Jane.” Prosecutors argued Combs used his fame and fortune to orchestrate drug-fueled gatherings — dubbed “freak-offs” — where women were abused and coerced.
In the week prior to sentencing, prosecutors had urged the judge to impose a “substantial sentence” that reflects the “psychological, emotional, and physical damage he has inflicted,” pushing for 11 years.
Combs’ defense had countered with a plea for just 14 months, insisting the star had already been “publicly dismantled” and that further punishment would be excessive.
In a four-page letter sent to the judge just hours before the hearing, Combs apologized for his past actions and pleaded for leniency.
Combs’ legal battles are far from over. He also faces a wave of civil lawsuits accusing him of rape and assault.
Tony Buzbee, a Texas attorney representing a significant number of plaintiffs, has said that more than 100 women and men nationwide have either filed suits or signaled their intention to do so.
The claims include allegations of drugging, coercion, and forcing victims — including underage accusers — into sex under the guise of career opportunities. Several lawsuits contend that assaults took place at Combs’ infamous parties frequented by A-list celebrities.
The post BREAKING: Diddy Sentenced to Just Over 4 Years in Prison After Sex Trafficking Trial first appeared on Mediaite.
