Federal prosecutors are urging a Manhattan judge to impose an 11-year prison sentence on Sean “Diddy” Combs after his conviction on two prostitution-related charges. In their sentencing memorandum, they called the defendant “unrepentant” and said the severity of his actions warrants incarceration.
The recommendation comes after a jury found Combs guilty in July of transporting individuals across state lines for prostitution, under the Mann Act, while acquitting him of racketeering and sex trafficking charges. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for Oct. 3 before U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian.
Prosecutors Cite Abuse, Violence, Fear
In their filing, prosecutors portrayed Combs as a dangerous figure who used coercion, intimidation and blackmail to silence victims. They say multiple accusers, including former partner Cassie Ventura, described years of abuse and threatened retaliation if the defendant were released.
“His behavior was brutal, controlling and manipulative,” prosecutors wrote, insisting that leniency would send the wrong message. The filing also requests a $500,000 fine to accompany the prison term.
Prosecutors rejected claims that Combs has shown remorse, writing that his public and legal statements reflect a refusal to accept accountability.
Combs’ legal team counters with a dramatically lighter proposal. They ask the court to cap his sentence at 14 months—adding that it would amount to a symbolic extra month beyond time already served in detention.
Defense attorneys described his case as “unique,” noting he earned no profit from the prostitution activity. They underscored Combs’ confinement since September 2024, saying it has already inflicted serious personal and professional harm.
They argue that on balance, the damage to his reputation, business interests, and mental health should weigh heavily in mitigation. “He has been punished enough,” one brief states.
Each transportation count carries a maximum sentence of 10 years, meaning Combs could theoretically face up to 20 years. But sentencing guidelines suggested in filings place the presumptive range much lower—commonly between four and five years.
The U.S. Probation Department reportedly recommended a 5- to 7-year term. Analysts say the judge will balance the gravity of the crimes against mitigating factors and Combs’ own conduct in custody.
If the court accepts the prosecution’s request, Combs would face one of the harshest penalties ever recommended in a high‐profile sexual offenses case. His attorneys warn such a sentence would be disproportionate. The judge’s decision will signal how far courts will go in punishing sexual misconduct involving prominent individuals.