NEW YORK, October 2 – Sean “Diddy” Combs has requested permission to speak at his sentencing in Manhattan federal court, where prosecutors are urging Judge Arun Subramanian to impose more than 11 years in prison following his conviction on prostitution-related charges.
The 55-year-old music mogul was found guilty on two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution after an eight-week trial. He was acquitted of more serious racketeering and sex trafficking charges, but prosecutors argue that the convictions alone merit a lengthy prison term.
“His crimes of conviction are serious and have warranted sentences over 10 years in multiple cases for defendants who, like Sean Combs, engaged in violence and put others in fear,” prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memo.
Diddy, who did not testify during the trial, now wants to personally address the court. His attorney, Teny Geragos, said in a filing: “The sentencing proceeding holds significant importance for Mr. Combs. He wishes to appear before the Court, address Your Honor, and allocute in the most dignified and respectful fashion possible.”
Judge Subramanian has already rejected Diddy’s motions for a new trial and acquittal but will allow him to wear civilian clothes instead of a prison uniform during sentencing.
The case has been marked by disturbing testimony from multiple women, including Diddy’s former partner Cassie Ventura, who described their decade-long relationship as “a horrific decade of my life stained by abuse, violence, forced sex, and degradation.” Ventura said she relocated her family due to fear of retaliation, warning: “If he walks free, his first actions will be swift retribution towards me and others who spoke up.”
Another woman, a former assistant identified as Mia, also submitted a statement detailing long-term trauma and urging the court to impose a sentence that reflects “the ongoing danger my abuser poses.” Diddy’s legal team is seeking to block her from speaking at the sentencing, arguing it could unfairly sway the judge.
Sentencing is scheduled for Friday in Manhattan federal court, where Diddy could face up to 135 months—just over 11 years—behind bars.
Source: AllHipHop
