Sentencing for Sean (Diddy) Combs set for October

Sean (Diddy) Combs is set to face sentencing in his federal criminal case on Oct. 3, as confirmed by a judge during a recent hearing. This decision comes after probation officials rejected the proposed plan by both the defence and prosecution to expedite the sentencing by approximately two weeks.

The hip-hop mogul, who is currently incarcerated following a mixed verdict last week, briefly communicated with his lawyer Marc Agnifilo during a virtual court session that lasted a mere two minutes. At one point, Combs requested for the lawyer to turn on his camera so they could have a face-to-face interaction.

Combs’ legal team had been advocating for an expedited sentencing process following his acquittal on racketeering and sex trafficking charges but conviction on two counts related to prostitution. The 55-year-old entrepreneur faces a potential sentence of up to ten years for each of the two counts of transportation for prostitution, involving the transportation of individuals across the country for sexual encounters. Had he been convicted on the more serious charges of racketeering conspiracy or sex trafficking, he could have faced a life sentence.

Prior to the recent hearing, both Combs’ lawyers and the prosecution submitted a joint letter proposing a sentencing date of Sept. 22, pending approval from the U.S. Probation Office. However, a subsequent letter confirmed that all parties, including the probation office, had agreed to the Oct. 3 date initially suggested by Judge Arun Subramanian.

Following the verdict last week, Combs received a standing ovation from fellow inmates upon his return to jail, as shared by Agnifilo. The founder of Bad Boy Records will continue to be held at the federal detention center in Brooklyn, where he has been detained since his arrest in September of last year. Despite a denied bail request last week, Combs remains in custody.

Judge Subramanian, referencing video evidence of Combs engaging in violent behavior towards a former girlfriend and photographic evidence of injuries sustained by another ex-girlfriend, emphasized his intention to hold Combs accountable for his history of violence and bullying behavior revealed during the trial.

Combs’ defense team is advocating for a sentence below the recommended 21 to 27 months in prison, citing mitigating factors. On the other hand, prosecutors argue that considering the severity of his crimes and violent history, a sentence of at least four to five years is warranted based on sentencing guidelines.

Ultimately, the decision on Combs’ sentencing lies with Judge Subramanian, who has the discretion to determine an appropriate sentence. While federal sentencing guidelines are typically considered, judges have the flexibility to deviate from these guidelines based on the specifics of each case.

As part of the sentencing process, Combs will undergo an interview with probation officers to facilitate the preparation of a pre-sentence investigation report, aiding the judge in determining an appropriate punishment. This report will provide valuable insights into Combs’ background and circumstances, ensuring a fair and just sentencing decision.