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Rap mogul challenges prostitution-related conviction
Sean "Diddy" Combs has filed an expedited appeal demanding his release from prison and the overturning of his conviction on two prostitution-related charges, his legal team announced on Thursday.
Arguments for overturning the verdict
Combs' attorney, Alexandra Shapiro, described his 50-month prison sentence as "unlawful, unconstitutional, and a perversion of justice" in court documents submitted to the appeals panel. She urged the court to either vacate the conviction entirely or order a resentencing.
The filing marks the latest effort by Combs' defense to challenge the outcome of his trial, following earlier unsuccessful bids for acquittal or a reduced sentence.
Prosecution's case and trial details
Federal prosecutors in New York accused Combs of leveraging his wealth, influence, and intimidation to coerce women into non-consensual sexual encounters. During the trial this spring, two of his former partners-Cassie Ventura and an anonymous witness identified as "Jane Doe"-testified that Combs subjected them to abuse and forced participation in group sexual activities with male escorts.
The jury acquitted Combs of the most severe charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, but convicted him on two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution under the Mann Act.
Sentencing and judicial response
In September, Combs requested either an acquittal or a new trial, citing concerns over the application of the Mann Act in his case. Judge Arun Subramanian rejected the motion before sentencing Combs to over four years in prison in December.
During sentencing, the judge acknowledged Combs' philanthropic work and character references but emphasized that "a history of good works can't erase your record." Prosecutors had sought a minimum 11-year term, while Combs' defense argued for a sentence equivalent to time already served.
Appeal claims judicial misconduct
The appeal argues that Judge Subramanian disregarded sentencing guidelines and improperly considered conduct for which Combs was acquitted. The filing accuses the judge of acting as an "unofficial thirteenth juror" and labels the sentence "draconian."
Prior to sentencing, Combs issued an apology to Ventura and "Jane Doe," calling his actions "disgusting, shameful, and sick" and attributing his behavior to "excess" and "ego."
Ongoing legal battles
Combs faces numerous civil lawsuits alleging sexual assault, rape, and exploitation. Many plaintiffs claim he used his fame to silence victims through intimidation, with some accusing him or his associates of drugging individuals at parties before alleged assaults.
Combs' representatives have consistently denied the allegations, stating he "never sexually assaulted or trafficked anyone-man or woman, adult or minor."
The Southern District of New York, which prosecuted the case, declined to comment on the appeal.
