American artist and music entrepreneur Sean "Diddy" Combs was found guilty on Wednesday, July 2, of two counts of transportation for the purpose of prostitution, but managed to avoid the three most serious charges: two for sex trafficking and one for criminal conspiracy.
Each of the charges for transportation for the purpose of prostitution could carry a maximum sentence of up to ten years in prison.
The 12-person jury, made up of eight men and four women, issued its verdict after a grueling eight-week trial that included testimony from 34 witnesses against the hip-hop mogul and founder of Bad Boy Records, who faced two counts of sex trafficking, two counts of transportation for prostitution, and one count of criminal conspiracy.
The trial included nearly seven weeks of testimony from 34 witnesses, all called by the prosecution. Diddy's defense team concluded their strategy without calling a single witness, including Diddy himself, arguing simply that the government failed to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
What sentence could Diddy face?
Each of the transportation for prostitution charges carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, under the Mann Act, which criminalizes the interstate transportation of persons for illicit sexual activity. This means Combs could face up to 20 years in prison if the judge decides to impose the sentences consecutively.
However, the final sentence will depend on several factors, including federal sentencing guidelines, the seriousness of the offenses, Combs' lack of prior criminal history, and any mitigating or aggravating circumstances the judge deems relevant.
What did the judge think about the case?
Judge Arun Subramanian, who presided over the trial in the Southern District of New York, has yet to issue detailed public comments on the verdict.
Combs has been held without bail since his arrest in September 2024. His legal team requested his release on $1 million bail pending sentencing, but the judge has yet to make a decision. A sentencing date has not been announced, but it is expected to occur in the coming months.
Additionally, Combs faces multiple civil lawsuits alleging sexual assault and misconduct, which could prolong his legal troubles even after his criminal conviction.
In short, although Diddy avoided the harshest sentences, he still faces a possible sentence of up to 20 years in prison for the transportation for the purpose of prostitution charges. The final decision will depend on the judge and the specific circumstances of the case.
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