Sean Diddy Combs, the renowned entertainment mogul, is set to spend approximately three years in federal prison, according to federal inmate records. Earlier this month, Combs was sentenced to 50 months in prison after being convicted on two counts of interstate prostitution. The court granted him credit for the time he served while awaiting trial this summer, positioning his expected release date on May 8, 2028, as per the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Despite facing more serious allegations, Combs was acquitted of charges related to racketeering and sex trafficking. He has consistently pleaded not guilty and maintained his innocence throughout the legal proceedings. Since his arrest in September 2024, he has been held in detention. Prosecutors initially argued for a more severe sentence of 11 years, but this conviction marks Combs' first criminal offense.
In addition to the prison sentence, the judge imposed a substantial $500,000 fine and mandated five years of supervised release following his incarceration. Combs' legal team has indicated plans to appeal the sentence, signifying ongoing legal battles ahead.
During an extensive eight-week trial, federal prosecutors presented a case alleging that Combs exploited his influential status as an entertainment mogul to coerce women into sexual acts involving paid sex workers. Notably, one of the key witnesses was Combs' former girlfriend, Casandra Cassie Ventura, who spent numerous days on the stand providing testimony against him.
The prosecution also sought to establish a racketeering charge, claiming that Combs led a criminal enterprise that concealed his alleged abusive actions. However, the jury did not concur with the prosecution's assertions regarding these serious charges, ultimately convicting Combs only of violating the Mann Act, which prohibits interstate travel for the purpose of engaging in prostitution.
Evidence submitted during the trial included bank records indicating that Combs had financially facilitated the travel of sex workers across the country for what were described as "freak-offs," drug-fueled sex marathons. While Combs' defense attorneys did not dispute his violent behavior towards women, they framed the case as one of domestic abuse rather than sex trafficking.
Although Combs did not testify during the trial, he communicated directly with the court through a poignant letter prior to his sentencing. In his letter to U.S. District Court Judge Arun Subramanian, he expressed regret for the pain he has caused, stating, “I lost my way. I got lost in my journey. Lost in the drugs and the excess. My downfall was rooted in my selfishness.”
In response to Combs' letter, Judge Subramanian highlighted the need to consider various factors when determining the sentence. “You abused the power and control with women you professed to love,” the judge remarked, emphasizing the physical, emotional, and psychological abuse involved. He also reminded Combs of his influential role as a figure admired by many, particularly in marginalized communities, urging him to reflect on his actions and seize the opportunity for personal growth.
Upon his release, Combs will be subject to strict conditions, including regular meetings with a probation officer, restrictions on drug use, and regular drug screenings. He will also be required to reside in an approved location. The probation officer will have the authority to conduct unannounced visits. Additionally, Combs must participate in an outpatient mental health treatment program and an approved domestic violence program. If there are reasonable grounds to suspect any violation of these conditions, he will be required to submit to searches of his person, property, residence, vehicle, and electronic devices.
