Diddy’s legal team reportedly requests leniency, calls for “Minimal” prison sentence

Sean "Diddy" Combs is due to be sentenced on October 3, 2025, after being convicted on two counts of transporting people across state lines for prostitution. His lawyers have filed papers asking the judge to give him a much shorter prison term. They say that because he was found not guilty of more serious charges, the punishment should not be harsh.

In the trial, Diddy was acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering charges. He was, however, found guilty under the Mann Act for transporting for prostitution. Each of the two counts has a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison for a possible total maximum sentence of around 20 years.

What is the defence asking for in Diddy's trial?

Lawyers for Diddy are asking for a sentence of somewhere around 14 months or less, which they claim is fair, given he has essentially already served almost 13 months since his arrest in September 2024. If the judge agrees, Combs would be released very soon after sentencing.

The defence says Combs has shown some change while in jail. They say he has entered treatment for substance abuse. They also say he has helped others and tried to act responsibly. The legal team says he has no prior criminal record, and they mention his role as a father to seven children and how his elderly mother depends on him.

Defence lawyers further say that Diddy's career and reputation have been badly harmed by these legal battles. They say many business projects are lost. The papers also describe what life has been like in jail. The defence claims that conditions in the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn have been difficult on Combs, both mentally and physically.

What prosecutors want and other key points?

Prosecutors, however, disagree. They believe a longer prison term is needed. They propose a sentence between 51 and 63 months, which is about four to five years. They see the crimes as serious, cite witness testimonies, including those from former partners, that describe abuse and coercion. The judge will consider all of this and look at the sentencing guidelines, which both sides refer to. The guidelines suggest a range of time in prison, though they allow for flexibility.

Diddy was denied bail after his conviction, even though he was acquitted of the more serious charges. The judge expressed concern about risks like flight and danger to the community. Also, many character letters were submitted on Combs' behalf. These came from family, friends, and others. They ask the court to be kind. Sentencing is set for October 3, 2025. Before that date, prosecutors will file their recommendations, and they must do so by September 29.

The judge, Arun Subramanian, will hear arguments from both sides. He will decide whether to accept a shorter sentence, as the defence asks, or to impose something closer to what prosecutors want. Even after sentencing, Diddy faces civil lawsuits from people who say he did wrong, while he denies all the wrongdoings. The public, media, and everyone else are waiting for the final verdict. Only time will tell how it all turns out.

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