Introduction to Sean "Diddy" Combs’ Case
Sean "Diddy" Combs’ application for a new trial or acquittal in his federal case was denied shortly before his conviction on Friday. This decision came after a series of arguments presented by Combs’ lawyer, who claimed that his client deserved a new trial due to certain technicalities.
Background of the Case
Combs’ lawyer argued that his client’s records of sex files with male escorts were technically amateur pornography, protected by the First Amendment. Additionally, they claimed that the RICO and sex trade counts should not have been merged with the man-act counts, as the jury had previously acquitted Combs of the latter. However, Judge Arun Subramanian was not persuaded by these arguments.
Judge’s Decision
In his decision, Judge Subramanian stated that Combs had not shown a "severe burden" to prove that the jury was prejudiced against him, particularly since he was not found guilty of the more serious RICO and sex trade charges. Subramanian wrote, "The government has proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt… That alone could be enough to defeat Combs’ challenge… If the prejudices had indeed been so great, one would expect a jury to convict on the most relevant counts before they could spill over and infect the others. A new trial is not justified."
Government’s Proposal
On Monday evening, the prosecution submitted a 164-page memorandum, seeking a prison sentence of at least 11 years for Combs. They argued that he was "not remorseful" and that his punishment should take into account the manner in which he committed the crimes. The government had previously proposed a prison sentence of four to five years.
Combs’ Defense
Combs’ lawyers, on the other hand, argued that their client should not serve more than 14 months in prison, claiming that he had already been sufficiently punished. They submitted letters from Combs’ former friend Yung Miami, producer Dallas Austin, and inmates who had taken Combs’ "Free Game" course, in an effort to demonstrate his positive character and contributions to society.
Conclusion and Potential Sentence
Combs was found guilty in July of two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution, but avoided more serious charges of sex trafficking and blackmail. He now faces up to 20 years in prison. The outcome of his case will depend on the sentence imposed by the court, which will take into account the arguments presented by both the prosecution and the defense.
