Speaking outside court Friday evening, Sean Combs’ lawyers vowed to appeal today’s decision.
“What we feel happened today was that the judge acted as a 13th juror, and that he second-guessed the jury,” attorney Marc Agnifilo said.
Agnifilo said their strongest argument on appeal is that the judge used coercion as a basis for a lengthy sentence, while the jury acquitted Combs on the allegation he used force or coercion to move his victims across state lines.
“We think that’s just absolutely inconsistent with the jury’s verdict,” he said. “The jury’s verdict was resoundingly clear. There was no sex trafficking, there was no racketeering, everything was consensual, everything was adult, which is why he was convicted only of the prostitution offense.”
Attorney Brian Steel called today a “very bad day for everybody.”
“There is a human being now in custody for 50 months based upon conduct that the jury heard, the jury resolved, and the jury rejected,” he said.
They did not answer questions about Combs’ reaction to the verdict or his current mindset.
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.”