Diddy Challenges Verdict on Prostitution-Linked Convictions, Aims for Acquittal or Retrial
Sean "Diddy" Combs, the renowned music mogul, is facing up to 20 years in prison, less time already served, when he is sentenced on October 3. Combs was convicted on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution on July 2.
During the trial, Combs' ex-girlfriend, Cassie, testified that a "freak off" involves hiring an escort for a sexual experience. Both Cassie and a witness identified as "Jane Doe" also claimed that Combs filmed the "freak offs." Cassie further testified that Combs directed the participants in these encounters.
However, Combs' lawyers have argued that he is not in violation of the Mann Act, a federal law that prohibits the transportation of individuals for prostitution. They contend that the federal sentencing guidelines, if properly calculated, call for a prison term significantly shorter (21 to 27 months) than what prosecutors seek, who argue for a much longer sentence potentially exceeding initial estimates of 4-5 years.
The defense's challenge to the prosecution’s case on the transportation for prostitution charges extends beyond the sentencing calculation. They have likely emphasized issues related to the evidence, contesting the sufficiency of proof required for conviction, since the defense rested quickly, asserting the government failed to meet its burden of proof.
Despite these arguments, a judge recently denied Combs’ request for bail pending sentencing, citing evidence of violence, coercion, and subjugation tied to the acts of prostitution.
In a bid for a more favourable outcome, Combs' lawyers have filed a motion seeking to exclude video evidence of an alleged assault on then-girlfriend Cassie in a hotel hallway in 2016, as it is irrelevant and unfairly prejudicial to the prostitution charges. They also argue that Diddy is the only person currently in jail for being a "john" and hiring adult male escorts for him and his girlfriends.
The motion also claims that all involved were adults, and there was no evidence of vulnerability, exploitation, trafficking, or sexual assault during the "freak offs" or hotel nights. Combs' lawyers are requesting a $50 million bail for his release pending the October sentencing.
Moreover, the motion argues that Diddy's conviction for the prostitution charges is unconstitutional. Judge Arun Subramanian is being asked to grant Diddy a new trial solely related to the two prostitution-related charges.
It is worth noting that Combs was cleared of the sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy charges during his trial, which concluded in early July.
The White House has not commented on potential pardons for Combs, but President Donald Trump is reportedly considering granting one. However, Diddy's reps did not respond to a request for comment on the potential pardon.
As sentencing draws near, Combs' legal team is presumably reviewing options for post-trial motions or appeals.
- Sean "Diddy" Combs' legal team might argue that his conviction for the prostitution charges related to hiring adult male escorts is unjust, as there was no evidence of vulnerability, exploitation, trafficking, or sexual assault during their encounters.
- Given his legal predicament, Combs' lawyers could potentially seek a shorter prison sentence for transporting individuals for prostitution, citing that the federal sentencing guidelines, if accurately computed, call for a term of 21 to 27 months, significantly shorter than the prosecutors' initial estimate of 4-5 years.
