Sean 'Diddy' Combs has been sentenced to just over four years in prison and fined $500,000 after being convicted of violating the Mann Act, a law that prohibits transporting individuals across state lines for illegal sex acts. The sentence, handed down by federal judge Arun Subramanian in a New York courtroom on Friday, was significantly less than the life term he potentially faced at the start of his trial earlier this year.
Combs, who appeared stunned by the outcome, held his head in his hands as the judge delivered the 50-month sentence. Just minutes earlier, the hip-hop mogul had pleaded with the court, stating he took full 'accountability and responsibility' for his actions and claiming he was a changed man who would devote himself to his family and community if released. The courtroom remained silent as the sentence was read, with Combs' family and supporters warned by a clerk to restrain any emotional displays.
The sentence fell short of both prosecutors' and defence expectations. Prosecutors had requested 11 years, while a sentencing panel had recommended 60 months. Combs will serve 10 months less than that recommendation. After the ruling, Combs appeared surprised to find court marshals ready to escort him back to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, where he has been held since his arrest 13 months ago.
Outside the courthouse, the atmosphere was subdued. Combs' mother, Janice, and his children were seen leaving the building following the hearing. The women's justice organisation UltraViolet released a statement applauding the sentence, with vice president Nicole Regalado saying it 'reflects what survivors of sexual violence have long known: Sean 'Diddy' Combs is a serial sexual predator and abuser'. She credited Cassie Ventura and other survivors for their courage in coming forward.
Attorney Gloria Allred, representing clients who have sued Combs for sexual assault, said outside court that the sentence may bring some calm to victims who feared retaliation. Cassie Ventura's attorney, Doug Wigdor, said in a statement that 'nothing can undo the trauma caused by Combs', but the sentence 'recognises the impact of the serious offences he committed'. Judge Subramanian addressed Combs' victims directly, saying, 'I want to speak to the strong women who came forward: Ms. Ventura and Jane, you’ve been through trauma we can’t imagine.'
