Diddy Found Guilty of Prostitution Charges, Acquitted on More Serious Counts – Remains in Custody Awaiting Sentencing
Sean “Diddy” Combs has been convicted on two federal counts of transporting individuals for prostitution under the Mann Act but was acquitted of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking after a seven-week trial in Manhattan federal court    .
A jury delivered the split verdict on July 2, clearing him of the most serious charges that would have carried a potential life sentence. Instead, he faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, though legal analysts expect a lower sentence since these are non-violent offenses and he has no prior convictions .
Judge Arun Subramanian denied bail following the verdict, citing evidence of Combs’ history of violent behavior and concerns over risk to witnesses and the public. Combs remains in custody at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn .
The sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 3, 2025. A pre-sentencing investigation report is expected by August 29, after which both prosecutors and defense will submit their recommendations. Authorities have proposed a sentence between 51 and 63 months (4¼–5¼ years), while defense attorneys argue for a shorter term, between 21 and 27 months, crediting time already served .
Context & Impact • The trial began on May 5, 2025, with jury selection and opening statements starting soon after. The prosecution presented 34 witnesses, while the defense chose not to call any witnesses in their defense   . • Testimonies included former partner Cassie Ventura and another woman referred to as “Jane,” describing coercive drug use, forced sexual encounters, and recording for leverage. These played a significant role in the conviction on lesser prostitution charges . • Combs’ legal team conceded aspects of his violent behavior but argued these actions did not meet the threshold for sex trafficking or racketeering under federal law .
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🧭 What Happens Next • Combs remains in custody pending sentencing. • A formal pre-sentencing report will be submitted in August, followed by sentencing arguments from both sides. • Observers anticipate the final sentence may align with the lower range of prosecution’s recommendation, reflecting Credit for time served and lack of prior convictions. • Widely discussed is whether Combs’ business empire—including Bad Boy Records and major asset holdings—can survive this legal ordeal, with some experts arguing for his possible future rebranding and redemption storyline in the entertainment industry   .
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Diddy’s trial marked a high-profile moment in the national conversation about abuse, power, and accountability within the music world. Follow Nsemgh.com for comprehensive updates as sentencing approaches.