Sean “Diddy” Combs has petitioned an appeals court for release from custody and a reversal of his conviction on two counts related to prostitution.
In a legal filing requesting an expedited appeal, Combs’ legal counsel asserted that his sentencing was improper, and the conduct leading to the conviction was not inherently criminal.
Attorney Alexandra Shapiro characterized Combs’ 50-month prison sentence as “unlawful, unconstitutional, and a perversion of justice.” She requested the appeals court to order a resentencing if the panel does not choose to overturn the conviction entirely.
This request marks the latest effort by Combs’ legal team to reduce his sentence or nullify the conviction.
The Southern District of New York, which prosecuted Combs, has declined to comment on the request submitted to the Second Circuit Court of Appeals.
Combs’ legal representatives had previously stated their intention to appeal the sentence and conviction.
Federal prosecutors in New York alleged that Combs exploited his wealth, influence, and threats of violence to coerce women into unwanted sexual encounters.
During a highly publicized trial earlier this year, the jury heard testimony from two of Combs’ former partners, Cassie Ventura and a woman identified as “Jane Doe.” They alleged abuse and forced participation in “freak-offs” with male escorts.
The jury acquitted Combs of the most severe charges: racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. However, he was found guilty on two counts of transportation for the purpose of prostitution.
Following his conviction in September, Combs requested Judge Arun Subramanian to consider an acquittal or a new trial, raising objections to the application of the Mann Act, an anti-prostitution statute. This appeal was unsuccessful.
Prior to sentencing, Combs’ attorneys advocated for a minimal sentence, essentially equivalent to time already served, which would have facilitated his swift release. Conversely, prosecutors urged the judge to impose a prison term of at least 11 years.
US District Judge Arun Subramanian ultimately sentenced Combs to over four years in prison, citing consideration of Combs’ societal contributions and testimonials from family and friends, but noting that “a history of good works can’t wash away your record.”
Combs’ appeal asserts that Judge Subramanian improperly applied sentencing guidelines, resulting in the 50-month prison term.
The appeal claims the judge “flouted” new guidelines and improperly factored in conduct for which Combs had been acquitted when determining the punishment. The filing alleges the judge “acted as a thirteenth juror” and deems the sentence “draconian.”
Before Judge Subramanian delivered his sentence, Combs apologized to Ms. Ventura and “Jane.”
“My actions were disgusting, shameful, and sick,” Combs stated. “I got lost in excess, I got lost in my ego.”
Combs also faces numerous pending civil lawsuits alleging sexual assault, rape, and sexual exploitation. Many of these lawsuits claim the rapper used his fame and power to silence accusers through threats. Some lawsuits detail allegations that the rapper—or individuals working for him—drugged individuals at parties before the alleged assaults.
Representatives for Mr. Combs have consistently maintained that he “never sexually assaulted or trafficked anyone—man or woman, adult or minor.”
The storms have brought flash flooding and mudslides during a time of busy holiday travel.
Rep Joyce Beatty, who sits on the centre’s board, argues the name change is illegal because it requires approval from Congress.
The prize marks the second-largest US lottery jackpot ever won.
The singer’s wife Suzan says it gets “awkward” when Merry Xmas Everybody is played in front of them.
The theatre was closed for seven months while the work was carried out.