Sean “Diddy” Combs will remain in jail until sentencing, bail denied
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Sean “Diddy” Combs convicted of federal prostitution charges, acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering.
Diddy Acquitted of Major Charges But Remains in Custody Until Sentencing
Sean “Diddy” Combs, one of the most influential figures in hip-hop, has been acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy charges, avoiding a potential life sentence. However, he remains in jail and still faces prison time for prostitution-related offenses, with sentencing set for October 3.
The verdict was delivered on Wednesday by a federal jury in New York. While Combs escaped conviction on the most serious charges, his legal troubles are far from over.
Convicted Under the Mann Act
Although acquitted on racketeering and trafficking, the jury convicted Combs of violating the federal Mann Act, a law that prohibits transporting individuals across state lines for prostitution. Prosecutors argued that Combs flew girlfriends and male escorts across the U.S. for the purpose of arranging sexual encounters, constituting a felony offense.
The Mann Act carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, although experts suggest his actual sentence will be significantly lower, based on federal guidelines.
The Role of Consent in the Case
At the heart of the case was the debate over consent and coercion. Prosecutors sought to prove that alleged victims, including singer Cassandra Ventura and another woman known as “Mia,” were forced into prolonged sexual exploitation by Combs through manipulation, intimidation, and physical force.
Legal analyst and former federal prosecutor Mitchell Epner said the case hinged on whether the women were “victims or volunteers.” He emphasized, “Everyone agreed that the sex happened, and that it continued for years — but the prosecution had to prove it wasn’t voluntary anymore. The jury didn’t find that proof beyond a reasonable doubt.”
Sentencing Guidelines Point to Shorter Term
Although the charge carries a maximum of 10 years, Combs is likely to receive a lighter sentence. His legal team anticipates a sentence of 21 to 27 months, citing sentencing guidelines for first-time offenders. However, federal prosecutors argue that aggravating factors — including alleged physical violence — should raise the sentence to between 51 and 63 months.
Combs has already served nine months in jail since his arrest in September 2024, time that will count toward his final sentence.
Acquitted of Racketeering and Trafficking
Combs was cleared of the most damaging charges — racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking — which alleged that he ran a coordinated, criminal enterprise involving drugs, manipulation, and abuse to exploit women.
Prosecutors painted a picture of “drug-fuelled sex marathons”, orchestrated by Combs using his wealth, influence, and fear. But the defense team successfully argued that the sexual encounters were consensual, and that Combs’ behavior, while controversial, did not meet the criminal standards of coercion or trafficking.
A Divided Jury and Legal Strategy
The 12-member jury, composed of eight men and four women, deliberated for two days before delivering a split verdict. Although they could not find Combs guilty beyond a reasonable doubt for the most serious charges, the panel agreed unanimously on the Mann Act violation.
Legal experts note that the outcome underscores the high burden of proof required in federal cases, especially those involving complex issues like coercion and consent.
Sentencing Set for October
Judge Arun Subramanian has proposed a sentencing hearing on October 3 at 10 a.m. Until then, Combs will remain in jail, as his request for bail was denied following the verdict.
Observers say the sentencing will be closely watched and could influence future cases involving celebrity figures and federal sex crime charges.
Future Still Uncertain for the Hip-Hop Mogul
Despite avoiding a life sentence, Combs’ reputation and legacy have taken a severe hit. Once celebrated for founding Bad Boy Records and mentoring stars like Notorious B.I.G., Combs now faces a future defined more by courtrooms than chart-topping hits.
Legal analysts believe his team may attempt to appeal the Mann Act conviction, but any overturn is unlikely before sentencing. In the meantime, the hip-hop mogul remains behind bars, awaiting his fate.
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