Sean "Diddy" Combs is facing sentencing today, October 3, 2025, in a New York court, where Judge Arun Subramanian will determine his fate following a conviction on prostitution-related charges. The sentencing marks a significant moment in a case that has exposed a dark side of the music mogul's life and career.
Combs was convicted in July on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, violating the federal Mann Act. These charges stem from incidents where he allegedly flew individuals across state lines for sexual encounters, including with his girlfriends and male sex workers. While the jury acquitted him of more serious charges, such as racketeering and sex trafficking, these convictions still carry a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison.
Federal prosecutors are advocating for a prison term of over 11 years and a $500,000 fine, citing the severity of Combs' actions and arguing that he exploited vulnerable individuals for his own sexual gratification. They emphasize the "relevant conduct" revealed during the trial, where witnesses testified about instances of Combs allegedly beating his girlfriends and providing them with illegal drugs. Prosecutors described the "freak-offs" that Combs orchestrated with prostitutes and his then-girlfriends, arguing that Combs tries to portray the abuse as "mutually toxic relationships". They contend that there was nothing mutual about the relationships, where Combs held all the power.
Combs' legal team is pushing for a much lighter sentence, requesting no more than 14 months of prison time. They argue that the lengthy sentence sought by prosecutors is "wildly out of proportion" to the crime. If the judge allows credit for time served at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, where Combs has been held since his arrest in September 2024, he could potentially walk free soon.
Ahead of his sentencing, Combs has expressed remorse for his actions. In a letter to Judge Subramanian, he apologized and took "full responsibility" for the hurt and pain he has caused. He stated that the "old me died in jail and a new version of me was reborn". Combs also claimed that he has been attending therapy, is now sober for the first time in 25 years, and is working to address his drug abuse and anger issues. He pleaded with the judge for "mercy" for himself, his seven children, and his 84-year-old mother, acknowledging that he has "failed my children as a father". He also offered to share his story to prevent others from making similar mistakes and asked the judge to "make me an example of what a person can do if afforded a second chance".
However, victims and their advocates have urged the judge to impose a significant sentence. Cassie, who previously filed a civil lawsuit against Combs, has asked the judge not to be lenient, expressing fears for her safety and calling Combs a manipulative abuser who has "no interest in changing or becoming better". A former personal assistant who accused Combs of rape in 2010 also requested a sentence that considers the ongoing danger he poses.
The outcome of today's sentencing will have far-reaching implications, not only for Combs but also for the broader conversation surrounding accountability and abuse within the entertainment industry. The case has already generated global attention, offering a glimpse into the life of one of the most influential figures in music and his billion-dollar enterprise.
