When Sean “Diddy” Combs was found guilty on only two of the lesser charges he faced, many assumed he’d receive a light sentence, or possibly avoid jail altogether. But now, federal prosecutors say they expect a prison sentence “substantially higher” than the four to five years they originally anticipated.
Conviction details
In early July, Combs was found guilty on two prostitution-related charges. Each carries a potential maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. He was acquitted on the other two, more serious racketeering charges.
Following the verdict, his legal team described the outcome as “a great victory.”
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New filing and sentencing outlook
According to CBS News, prosecutors initially estimated Combs would serve a four-to-five-year term.
However, The Associated Press reports a written submission filed Thursday in Manhattan federal court now suggests otherwise. In the document, prosecutors said they believe the appropriate sentence range will be “substantially higher,” citing the risk that Combs might flee.
The submission also opposed Combs’ request to be released on $50 million bail ahead of his Oct. 3 sentencing. Prosecutors argued that Combs must remain in custody unless he can demonstrate “exceptional circumstances.” They stated he has failed to do so.
Past bail attempts and current detention
This latest denial follows a prior failed bail request, in which Combs’ team proposed a $1 million package.
U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian ruled at the time that no clear and convincing evidence had been presented to prove Combs does not pose a danger to others or the community.
In a new bond proposal submitted Tuesday, Combs’ attorney Marc Agnifilo also cited harsh conditions at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. Prosecutors responded that conditions have improved since Combs’ arrest.
Prosecutors cite history of violence
In their filing, prosecutors wrote, “The defendant’s extensive history of violence — and his continued attempt to minimize his recent violent conduct — demonstrates his dangerousness and that he is not amenable to supervision.”
They added, “The defendant utterly fails to establish by clear and convincing evidence, as required, that he does not pose a danger to the community.”
Sentencing discretion remains with judge
According to the AP, Subramanian will have wide discretion in sentencing Combs. While federal sentencing guidelines exist to prevent disparities, they are not mandatory.
Combs’ lawyers believe the appropriate guideline range, if calculated correctly, would call for 21 to 27 months in prison. Still, with prosecutors now pushing for a longer term, Combs will remain behind bars until sentencing day on Oct. 3.
