American music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs has been sentenced to 50 months in federal prison after being found guilty on two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution.
The sentencing took place on October 3, 2025, at the U.S. District Court in Manhattan, marking the conclusion of a high-profile case that had attracted international attention for over a year.
Judge Katherine Polk Failla handed down the sentence, which includes four years and two months in prison, a $500,000(Sh65,500,000)fine, and five years of supervised release after completion of his jail term. Combs will receive credit for the one year he has already spent in custody since his September 2024 arrest.
In her ruling, Judge Failla said the court recognized Combs’ influence in entertainment and philanthropy but emphasized that “no individual, regardless of status or success, is exempt from accountability under the law.”
Prosecutors had sought a longer sentence, citing what they described as “a sustained pattern of coercive behavior.”
The defense team argued that Combs had taken responsibility for his actions and had made efforts toward rehabilitation during his time in detention.
Before sentencing, Combs addressed the court and expressed remorse for his past conduct. Reading from a prepared statement, he said: “To everyone I hurt, I apologize. I was a man consumed by ego and bad choices. I accept this outcome and hope to become a better person for my family and community.”
His lawyer, Nicole Westmoreland, described her client as “a man confronting the consequences of his past” and asked the court to consider his family’s appeals for leniency.
Diddy’s children asked the court for leniency, describing him as a changed man who had grown more patient and accountable during his time in custody. They spoke about the family’s pain and loss, urging the judge to allow them the chance to heal together.
The sentencing follows a lengthy federal investigation that began after singer Cassie Ventura, Combs’ former partner, filed a civil lawsuit in 2024 alleging years of abuse and coercion. The suit was settled privately, but the claims prompted further criminal inquiry.
During the trial, multiple witnesses, including Cassie and others identified by pseudonyms, testified about incidents of violence, manipulation, and exploitation. Prosecutors presented evidence of organized travel and financial arrangements used to facilitate illegal activity across state lines.
Witnesses such as a male escort known as “The Punisher” and former Danity Kane member Dawn Richard also testified, describing alleged misconduct that took place over several years.
Prosecutors argued that Combs used his position and wealth to “control and exploit others for personal gratification.” The defense maintained that Combs had taken accountability and was committed to personal reform.
Combs will serve his sentence in a federal correctional facility to be determined by the Bureau of Prisons. With time served and possible credit for good behavior, he could be eligible for release in late 2028.
He will also be required to undergo counseling and comply with the terms of his supervised release upon completion of his sentence.
Following the verdict, representatives for Combs’ companies — including Love Records, Sean John, and his liquor ventures — confirmed that business operations will continue under independent management while he serves his term.
Sean “Diddy” Combs, 55, rose to fame in the 1990s as the founder of Bad Boy Records, managing artists such as The Notorious B.I.G., Faith Evans, and Mase. He later expanded into fashion, television, and spirits, building one of the most recognizable brands in hip-hop.