Prosecutors’ New Sentencing Expectations
In a recent development, prosecutors revealed they now anticipate a much harsher prison sentence for music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs than the four to five years initially expected, following his conviction on prostitution-related charges. This statement was made during a written submission in Manhattan federal court late Thursday, where they also opposed Combs’ request for a $50 million bail as he awaits sentencing on October 3.
Charges and Conviction Details
Combs, 55, was acquitted of more serious charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, which could have led to life imprisonment. However, he was found guilty on two counts related to transporting individuals for prostitution—charges linked to arranging travel for girlfriends and male sex workers to engage in sexual activities that he recorded. Each count carries a maximum sentence of ten years.
Prosecutors’ Concerns and Sentencing Guidelines
After the verdict, prosecutors initially estimated that federal sentencing guidelines would suggest a prison term of four to five years. However, they have since reassessed and now believe the sentencing range will be “substantially higher,” heightening concerns that Combs may attempt to flee before sentencing.
Judge Arun Subramanian has significant discretion in determining the final sentence and may opt to deviate from the guidelines, which are not binding. Combs’ legal team argues that, if the guidelines are correctly applied, they might indicate a shorter prison term of 21 to 27 months.
Bail Denied and Community Safety Concerns
On the day of the verdict, prosecutors successfully contested Combs’ release on bail, which was argued by defense attorney Marc Agnifilo. Judge Subramanian denied the request, stating that Combs had not convincingly demonstrated that he posed no danger to himself or the community, though he allowed Agnifilo to make a renewed request.
Agnifilo later cited similar cases where defendants were granted bail, as well as poor living conditions at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, where Combs has been held since his arrest in September. He claimed Combs faced unfair treatment due to his involvement in a “swingers” lifestyle involving consensual encounters with male sex workers.
Prosecutors Argue for Continued Detention
Prosecutors responded by asserting that the nature of Combs’ prostitution-related convictions mandated his pre-sentencing incarceration unless he could demonstrate exceptional circumstances, which they contended he has not.
They also emphasized that Combs represents a danger to the community, a point disputed by Agnifilo. In his defense, Agnifilo argued, “Sean Combs will not be violent to anyone. As we said in court, this jury gave him his life back, and he will not squander his second chance at life, nor would he do anything to further jeopardize his seven children not having a father, and four of his children not having a parent at all.”
Judicial Remarks on Jail Conditions
Prosecutors noted that conditions at the federal detention facility had improved significantly since Combs’ arrest, referencing a federal judge’s prior criticism regarding lockdowns and medical care quality at the facility in January 2024.
Concerns Over Violence
Furthermore, they pointed out that the cases cited by Agnifilo did not compare favorably to Combs’ situation, especially considering his documented history of violent behavior. Prosecutors stated, “The defendant’s extensive history of violence – and his continued attempt to minimize his recent violent conduct – demonstrates his dangerousness and that he is not amendable to supervision.” They conclude that Combs has failed to prove he does not pose a danger to the community.
