Sean “P. Diddy” Combs could potentially face a 20-year imprisonment sentence after being found guilty of federal prostitution charges. However, his legal team is reportedly considering options for appealing the verdict.
The 55-year-old music mogul was convicted on two counts of transportation for prostitution at a federal courthouse in Manhattan. Judge Arun Subramanian refused bail, leading to Combs remaining in custody until his sentencing.
According to sources, Combs has the right to challenge both his conviction and the subsequent sentence once officially handed down by Judge Subramanian. His defense attorneys will need to demonstrate to the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals that any trial errors influenced the jury’s decision.
During the court proceedings, prosecutor Maurene Comey highlighted concerns about Combs posing a danger. Reuters court reporter Luc Cohen pointed out the significant challenge the defense faces in proving errors by Judge Subramanian that could overturn the conviction.
Appeals of this nature typically take several years to conclude. While Combs can pursue an appeal, federal prosecutors are limited in challenging the not-guilty findings on other severe charges due to double jeopardy laws.
Prosecutors may only appeal the length of the sentence once it is determined by the court. The government has requested a consecutive maximum sentence totaling 20 years behind bars.
In response to the situation, criminal defense attorney Todd Spodek emphasized the differing perspectives between the prosecution and defense in seeking a favorable outcome for Combs.
Combs was characterized as “unrepentant” in court filings, with his former girlfriend expressing ongoing fear in a victim impact statement.
The appeals process could extend over several years, regardless of the upcoming sentencing.