Doug Wigdor, the attorney for Cassie Ventura, released a statement following Sean Combs’ sentencing.
“While nothing can undo the trauma caused by Combs, the sentence imposed today recognizes the impact of the serious offenses he committed. We are confident that with the support of her family and friends, Ms. Ventura will continue healing knowing that her bravery and fortitude have been an inspiration to so many,” Wigdor said.
Judge Arun Subramanian said his sentence should hopefully send a message to other survivors of domestic abuse that “violence against women is met with real accountability.”
Judge Subramanian concluded the sentencing by asking Sean Combs to make the most of his time in prison.
“You have a chance to show your children what true change and accountability look like,” the judge said. “I am counting on you to make the most of your second chance.”
The judge encouraged Combs that there is a “light at the end of the tunnel” despite the lengthy sentence.
“Mr. Combs, I know you feel you are in a dark place right now, but these crimes were serious ones,” the judge said. “Mr. Combs, you and your family are going to get through this. There is a light at the end of the tunnel.”
As soon as court adjourned, Combs got up from his seat and looked towards his family seated in the gallery.
Sean “Diddy” Combs has been sentenced to 50 months in prison and five years of supervised release for his conviction on two prostitution-related offenses.
The judge also set a fine of $500,000 – the maximum allowed under the law. Combs has already served 12 months in prison, which he will get credit for.
Combs sat expressionless in his seat when the judge issued his sentence. His hands were clasped in his lap, and he dropped his head slightly.
Judge Arun Subramanian said a substantial sentence was required “to send a message to abusers and victims alike that exploitation and violence against women is met with real accountability.”
Subramanian acknowledged Combs’s business success and impact on the Black community.
“I have considered the fact that you are a self-made artist and businessman who has inspired and lifted up communities,” the judge said. “Your work history, impact on the Black community, and entrepreneurship are celebrated and iconic.”
He also commended Combs for getting sober.
“The court also notes you have had problems with addiction,” he said. “The court understands those drugs may have exacerbated your violent behavior over the years.”
However, the judge said that “a history of good works cannot wash away the record in this case.”
“You used that abuse to get your way, especially when it came to freak offs and hotel nights,” he said. “This was subjugation and it drove both Ms. Ventura and Jane into thoughts of ending their lives. That is the reality of what happened.”
Judge Subramanian also thanked Cassie Ventura and “Jane” for their testimony.
“You stood up to power,” the judge said. “The number of people who you reached is incalculable.”
Sean Combs let out a deep exhale as he rose from his seat to address the judge.
“I want to thank you for giving me the chance to speak up for myself,” Combs said, his fingers resting on the table. “One of the hardest things I’ve had to handle is having to be quiet, not being able to express how sorry I am for my actions.”
Combs first apologized to Cassie Ventura.
“I want to personally apologize to Cassie Ventura for any harm that I’ve caused her, emotionally or physically. I don’t take that lightly,” Combs said.
He also apologized to “Jane.”
“I didn’t mean to hurt you. I’m sorry I brought you into my mess,” Combs said.
He then apologized to all victims of domestic violence who may have witnessed the 2016 hotel security camera video depicting him attacking Ventura.
“That video, that disgusting, despicable video, triggered a lot of people around the world,” Combs said.
Choking up, Combs told the judge he lost his freedom, his ability to care for his children and his mother and his self respect.
“I’ve been humbled and broken to my core. I hate myself right now,” Combs said.
He turned to his family in the gallery and offered an individual apology to each of his seven children and then to his mother.
“You taught me better,” Combs said through tears.