U.S. federal prosecutors have urged a New York judge to impose a prison sentence of more than 11 years on music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, following his conviction on prostitution-related charges.
According to Reuters and ABC News, prosecutors filed a sentencing memo on Tuesday requesting “at least 135 months’ imprisonment” — equal to just over 11 years — and a $500,000 fine. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian is scheduled to deliver Combs’ sentence on Friday in Manhattan.
The 55-year-old hip-hop entrepreneur was found guilty on July 2 of two counts of transporting male prostitutes across state lines to engage in what prosecutors described as “drug-fueled sexual performances” with his girlfriends, while he watched, filmed, and masturbated.
He was acquitted of more serious racketeering and sex trafficking charges, which could have carried a potential life sentence. Still, prosecutors argued that Combs’ conduct was violent, exploitative, and deserving of a lengthy punishment.
“The defendant will not be punished for any crimes of which he was acquitted, of course, but punishment for his crimes of conviction must take into account the manner in which he committed them,” prosecutors wrote.
The filing described Combs as “violent, abusive and unrepentant,” alleging that he wielded power over women involved in his schemes, particularly singer Cassie Ventura. Prosecutors cited hotel security footage showing Ventura “bloodied and bruised,” and accused Combs of horrific physical abuse throughout their relationship. They argued the sentence should reflect his “decades of unchecked violence” and the “psychological, emotional and physical damage he has inflicted.”
Defence Pushes Back
Combs’ attorneys are seeking a far lighter sentence, suggesting around 14 months — a term that could see him released by the end of this year, factoring in time already served at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Centre since his September 16, 2024 arrest.
In their earlier filing, defence lawyers described the government’s recommendation as “draconian,” accusing prosecutors of ignoring the jury’s acquittals.
“Verdict be damned—lock him up and throw away the key,” the defence wrote.
Trial and Conviction
Combs’ legal troubles began with his 2024 arrest on multiple federal charges, including racketeering, sex trafficking, and transportation for prostitution. His trial began on May 5, 2025, with jury selection completed a week later.
After weeks of testimony, jurors acquitted him of racketeering and sex trafficking but convicted him on two transportation counts involving Ventura and another unnamed woman.
The once-celebrated music mogul, who built a billion-dollar empire through Bad Boy Records, fashion, and business ventures, now faces the prospect of a lengthy prison sentence that could reshape his legacy.
Judge Subramanian will issue the final ruling on Friday.
