Sean “Diddy” Combs’ attorneys have filed a motion seeking either acquittal or a new trial. He was convicted earlier this month on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution under the Mann Act. However, he was acquitted of sex‑trafficking and racketeering charges.
Defense Challenges Mann Act Application
In a 62‑page memorandum filed on July 30, Combs’ legal team argues that their client did not violate the Mann Act. They assert the statute was misapplied and that there was no evidence of coercion, trafficking, or commercial exploitation.
Their filing declares: “To our knowledge, Mr. Combs is the only person ever convicted of violating the statute for conduct [for] anything like this.”
They emphasize all parties involved were consenting adults and events described were private performances. The defense states: “The verdict confirms the women were not vulnerable or exploited or trafficked or sexually assaulted… And Mr. Combs never had sex with the supposed ‘prostitutes.’”
First Amendment & Prejudice Claims
Combs’ lawyers maintain that the events labeled “Freak‑Offs” and “hotel nights” were consensual and filmed privately for personal viewing. They contend these acts are protected under the First Amendment and do not qualify as prostitution.
The motion also highlights “severe spillover prejudice” from evidence used in other charges. Specifically, it notes inflammatory video footage showing Combs assaulting Cassie Ventura in 2016 was only admissible due to separate RICO and trafficking counts. They argue such evidence should not taint the prostitution-related charges.
Request for Bond and Release
Combs is currently detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. He has requested release on a $50 million bond, secured by his Miami home, with house arrest conditions and travel restrictions. His attorneys argue his detention is unjustified given the poor conditions at the facility.
The same motion is pending review alongside legal arguments seeking the dismissal or retrial of the prostitution convictions. No decision has yet been rendered.
Mixed Verdict, High Stakes Ahead
On July 2, 2025, after a jury deliberation, Combs was found guilty of two transportation counts but acquitted of racketeering and sex trafficking.
The guilty charges carry a maximum sentence of up to 10 years each. He faces sentencing on October 3, 2025, and prosecutors have asked for a four to five‑year prison term. The defense argues for time served and no additional punishment.
Combs’ legal team insists this case sets a troubling precedent. In their view, consensual adult relationships and private recordings should not lead to criminal convictions. Their motion calls on the court to either overturn the verdict or allow a fresh trial limited to evidence admissible under the Mann Act framework.
If acquittal is not granted, the defense urges a new trial, contending that prejudicial evidence improperly influenced the jury.