Sean “Diddy” Combs has been sentenced to just over four years in a federal prison, marking the end of one of the most high-profile celebrity trials in recent memory.
The former music mogul and entrepreneur was ordered to serve 50 months behind bars by Judge Arun Subramanian, who also imposed a $500,000 fine.
The sentence, handed down on Friday in New York, was far harsher than what Diddy’s lawyers had requested.
His legal team had argued for a 14-month sentence, while prosecutors pushed for 11 years. The judge settled on a middle ground — a little over four years — after a lengthy hearing filled with emotional testimony from both sides.
Before announcing the sentence, Judge Subramanian addressed the victims who had testified about their experiences with Diddy.
“To Ms [Cassie] Ventura and the other brave survivors that came forward, I want to say first: We heard you,” he said, acknowledging the pain and courage of those who spoke in court.
He also rejected the defence’s portrayal of Diddy’s behaviour as “consensual” or simply “a sex, drugs, and rock ’n’ roll story.” Instead, he said the evidence showed irreparable harm to two women, adding that a substantial sentence was needed to “send a message that abuse of women will not be tolerated.”
The judge explained that while Diddy had been acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering charges, the court could still take into account the broader circumstances and history surrounding his behaviour.
Outside the courthouse, Diddy’s defence attorney Brian Steel sharply criticised the judge’s decision, calling it “un-American.” He told CNN that Diddy had effectively been punished for charges the jury had already rejected.
“People get falsely accused, they go to trial, and the jury clears them,” Steel said.
“Then they get sentenced for the same conduct the jury said they didn’t commit. It’s un-American.”
Steel added that the legal team believes the ruling “sends the wrong message” and confirmed they will appeal.
Another of Diddy’s attorneys, Marc Agnifilo, echoed the sentiment, saying the sentence was based on “coercion,” even though the jury specifically found there was none.
“The jury reached a verdict on coercion and found there was not coercion,” Agnifilo said.
“The judge used that same word a dozen times today. That’s unconstitutional.”
During the hearing, Diddy stood up to address the court. He apologised directly to his former partner, Cassie Ventura, and to “all the victims of domestic violence.”
He described his past actions as “disgusting, shameful and sick,” and said he had reflected deeply since his arrest.
The 55-year-old has already served more than a year in custody since his September 2024 arrest, which means he will receive credit for time served.
Diddy’s team plans to file an appeal, arguing that Judge Subramanian relied on factors unrelated to the charges on which he was convicted.
His lawyers will also challenge the length of the sentence, which they say exceeds what the law allows under the Mann Act — the statute under which Diddy was convicted for transporting individuals to engage in prostitution.
Meanwhile, prosecutors maintain that the sentence is fair and necessary, pointing to the seriousness of the crimes and the emotional impact on the victims.
Judge Subramanian, in closing, said the court recognised Diddy’s success as a self-made artist and businessman but stressed that no one is above the law.
“Your achievements do not excuse your actions,” he said.
“Accountability is not optional.”