Takeaways:
- Sean “Diddy” Combs’ request for acquittal and a new trial has been denied by Judge Arun Subramanian.
- The music mogul faces up to 20 years in prison after convictions for transporting women for prostitution.
- Cassie Ventura and another woman testified, with prosecutors presenting extensive evidence, including texts and emails.
- His sentencing is scheduled for October 3, 2025.
Judge Rules Against Combs
Just days before his scheduled sentencing, Sean “Diddy” Combs suffered another legal setback. On Sept. 30, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian denied Combs’ request for an acquittal and new trial.
In his ruling, the judge said prosecutors presented “overwhelming evidence” of Combs’ guilt under the Mann Act, pointing to testimony from ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, another woman referred to as “Jane,” and multiple escorts, alongside text messages and emails.
Although Combs, 55, was acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy, he was convicted in July of two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution—each carrying up to 10 years in prison.
The Case Against Diddy
The trial, which lasted seven weeks, focused on Combs’ alleged pattern of orchestrating multi-day sex parties—referred to as “freak offs”—with illicit substances and escorts.
- Cassie Ventura, who dated Combs from 2007 to 2018, testified she was coerced into these events and that Combs filmed them for blackmail purposes.
- Ventura described living under his control: “Whether it was career, sex, everything—I didn’t have much of a say.”
- She added that she feared both for her safety and her career if she resisted.
The prosecution argued Combs weaponized his industry power, staff, and resources to maintain control over women in his orbit.
Sentencing Ahead
Combs’ sentencing is scheduled for October 3, 2025. Prosecutors are recommending 11 years in prison, while defense attorneys are pushing for leniency.
“The defendant will not be punished for crimes of which he was acquitted,” prosecutors wrote, “but punishment for his crimes of conviction must take into account the manner in which he committed them.”
Cassie Ventura’s Lawyer Responds
Following the July verdict, Ventura’s lawyer Douglas Wigdor praised her courage:
“Cassie displayed unquestionable strength and brought attention to the realities of powerful men in our orbit and the misconduct that has persisted for decades.”
He emphasized that her civil complaint, filed in November 2023, was a turning point in holding Combs accountable.
A Split Verdict
The jury found Combs guilty on two counts of prostitution-related charges but not guilty on sex trafficking and racketeering. After the mixed verdict, reporters noted Combs dropped to his knees in court, while his family clapped in relief at the partial acquittals.
Still, the conviction ensures he will face significant prison time.
Industry Fallout
Combs’ trial has left a mark on the entertainment industry. Once celebrated as a hip-hop icon and business mogul, the case has instead spotlighted abuse, control, and exploitation in the music industry.
For aspiring artists and professionals, the case is another reminder of how power imbalances can foster misconduct—and how survivors’ voices can reshape accountability in entertainment.
Final Thoughts
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sentencing on October 3 will determine the next chapter of his career and legacy. Whether he serves a decade or more in prison, the trial has already changed the conversation in Hollywood and beyond about power, consent, and justice.
