Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ legal representatives filed a comprehensive 380-page memorandum on September 23, 2025, advocating for a lenient sentence following his conviction for interstate transportation of consenting adults for prostitution. The defense argues for a maximum prison term of 14 months, which they contend effectively equates to time served due to Combs’ incarceration since his arrest over a year ago in New York.
The attorneys emphasize that the sentence should be based solely on the specific charge for which Combs was convicted. They assert that any consideration of more severe penalties—potentially five years, as indicated by prosecution recommendations—would be unlawful. The legal team highlights that Combs was acquitted of more serious charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering, thus underscoring their argument for a fair sentencing process.
In their filing, the defense presents a multifaceted plea for leniency. It includes personal letters from family, friends, and business associates, aiming to humanize Combs and illustrate his character and contributions to the community. The defense’s approach is designed to provide the judge with a broader perspective on Combs beyond the charges he faced.
The memorandum challenges the prosecution’s suggested penalties, which the defense characterizes as overly harsh and lacking perspective. They argue that the prosecution’s stance resembles that of the “Queen of Hearts” from *Alice in Wonderland*, emphasizing a desire to punish regardless of the jury’s verdict. The defense maintains that Combs should be sentenced only for the crime of which he was convicted, not for the unproven allegations surrounding the case.
A critical aspect of the defense’s argument is the assertion that Combs did not financially benefit from the alleged prostitution activities. They clarify that the transportation involved consenting adults, specifically mentioning the testimony of Cassie Ventura, who appeared under the pseudonym “Jane.” The legal team describes the encounters as involving “fully competent adult men and women voluntarily crossing state lines and engaging in consensual acts,” countering allegations of coercion and force prevalent in media narratives.
The defense also paints a picture of Combs as a person who has faced significant personal losses, including the deaths of his father, his friend Christopher Wallace (Notorious B.I.G.), and Kim Porter, the mother of his children. They argue that these tragedies, coupled with struggles related to substance abuse, anger, and anxiety, have deeply affected Combs. They believe these factors should be considered during sentencing.
As the case progresses, the legal team plans to continue emphasizing these personal aspects alongside their critique of the prosecution’s approach. They argue that the consequences Combs has already faced, both personally and professionally, have been severe. The defense’s goal remains clear: to secure a sentence that acknowledges both the gravity of the situation and the character of the individual involved.
The outcome of this case will not only impact Combs’ future but may also set precedents regarding how courts address similar cases in the future. As the legal proceedings unfold, the focus will remain on what constitutes a fair and just resolution to this high-profile matter.