Music Mogul Sean Combs Confronts Sentencing Following Federal Prostitution Guilty Verdict
Sean “Diddy” Combs will stand before a federal judge in NYC on Friday for sentencing after being conviction earlier this year on federal counts involving prostitution.
Jury Decision
Subsequent to the two-month court case that wrapped up in the month of July, panel members cleared Combs of the gravest allegations of human trafficking and racketeering conspiracy. However, the jury, though, rule against him on two counts of moving individuals for commercial sex acts.
Judge Subramanian now has the job of setting the punishment. The hearing is scheduled to start at 10am eastern time.
Case Background
He faced allegations of pressuring two ex-partners into drug-laced sexual encounters involving paid companions. If found guilty on the gravest offenses might have resulted in a life in prison.
When he was acquitted of those allegations, he reportedly dropped to his knees to pray. His attorney stated that he had “received his life back”.
Possible Punishment
Yet, the findings of guilt he obtained still each carry a potential of ten years in prison pursuant to the US Mann Act, which prohibits moving across state borders to arrange commercial sex.
The government describe the conduct as grave offenses, although the legal defense has downplayed the counts as “fallback” allegations that never should have gone forward.
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It has been reported that Combs intends to speak directly to the presiding officer before the penalty is pronounced, despite never testifying during the legal proceedings.
In a request filed last week, his lawyers petitioned that he be allowed to appear in “non-prison clothing” at the proceeding, similar to he had in the court case when he wore casual wear.
“The sentencing process carries great weight for Mr. Combs,” the filing stated. “He wishes to face the judge, speak to the court, and allocate in the most honorable and dignified fashion attainable.”
Suggested Sentences
Various punishments remain under consideration, as prosecutors and defense attorneys have offered suggestions guided by federal sentencing rules, while the final decision is up to the judge.
Federal attorneys is advocating for a minimum of over 11 years behind bars – amounting to over a decade – calling Combs “not sorry” and pointing out violence and intimidation that those who testified recounted.
His attorneys are requesting up to just over a year, which including credit for time served would permit Combs to be released by the conclusion of next year. They argue that his punishment has already proven adequate for what they claim was willing intimate relations with compensated companions.
Probation officials, at the same time, estimated that the standard penalty range could reach as much as 87 months.