Sean “Diddy” Combs, the hip-hop mogul and entertainment executive, was sentenced Thursday to 50 months in federal prison for two prostitution-related convictions, stemming from a trial that concluded in July. Accounting for time already served, Combs is expected to remain behind bars for approximately 36 months. In addition, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian imposed five years of supervised release and a $500,000 fine, the maximum allowable under federal law.
At the moment of sentencing, Combs sat with his head bowed, shoulders hunched, and hands clasped. Prior to hearing the judgment, he addressed the court with an apology, expressing remorse to his former partners, friends, family, and children. “My behavior was disgusting, shameful, and sick,” Combs said, acknowledging that he had let down his children and failed as a son to his mother.
Judge Subramanian emphasized that a lengthy sentence was warranted “to send a message to abusers and victims alike that exploitation and violence against women is met with real accountability.” The judge addressed Combs’ orchestrated “freak-offs” — choreographed sex parties involving multiple women — rejecting claims from the defense that these events were merely consensual or part of a broader “sex, drugs, and rock ‘n’ roll” lifestyle.
Sean “Diddy” Combs attends Day 1 of 2023 Invest Fest on August 26, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia.
Paras Griffin/Getty
During the proceedings, Assistant U.S. Attorney Christy Slavik criticized Combs’ lack of genuine accountability, noting that he had scheduled speaking engagements anticipating an early release. “That is the height of hubris, your honor,” she said. “Even now, at sentencing for his conviction for two federal crimes … he doesn’t fully grapple with how his actions got him here.”
Combs, 55, was convicted of transporting women for the purpose of prostitution but was acquitted of more serious charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering. Federal prosecutors had recommended an 11-year sentence, arguing in their sentencing memorandum that Combs remained “unrepentant.” The defense sought a sentence of no more than 14 months, presenting a 12-minute video montage during the hearing that highlighted Combs’ philanthropic work, including motivational talks to children and participation in a charity marathon for education. Combs appeared emotional as the video played.
The sentencing marks a significant moment in the high-profile case, concluding months of legal scrutiny over the conduct of one of hip-hop’s most prominent figures. Combs has been in custody since his September 2024 arrest, and the ruling underscores the federal judiciary’s intent to hold influential individuals accountable for crimes involving the exploitation of women.
