Sean “Diddy” Combs’ legal team has formally requested that a federal judge release the music mogul from custody ahead of his scheduled sentencing in October.
The motion, filed this week, argues that Combs is being treated unusually harshly for the charges on which he was convicted. The 55-year-old was found guilty of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, but acquitted of the more serious allegations, including sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy, which could have carried a life sentence.
Despite the acquittal on the most severe charges, Diddy could still face up to 10 years in prison. Judge Arun Subramanian initially ordered that Combs remain behind bars until sentencing, citing his history of domestic violence as a reason for pre-sentencing detention.
However, Diddy’s attorneys are now asking the court to reconsider, stating that his continued incarceration is unjust and unprecedented for the charges in question.
“Sean Combs should not be in jail for this conduct,” his lawyers wrote in their court filing. “In fact, he may be the only person currently in a United States jail for being any sort of john.”
They further argued that pre-sentencing detention is typically reserved for those operating prostitution rings, not clients.
“There has literally never been a case like this one,” they claimed, adding that all other individuals involved — including Combs’ girlfriends, the prostitutes, porn stars, and agency leaders — are not in custody.
If granted release, the legal team said Combs would comply with strict bail conditions, including a $50 million bond and travel restrictions. They also emphasized that he poses no flight risk or danger to the public.
The sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 3rd in New York.
