American music mogul, Sean “Diddy” Combs, has appealed to a United States federal judge for leniency as he prepares to be sentenced on two prostitution-related convictions.
The sentencing is scheduled for Friday, October 3, 2025, following his earlier acquittal on more serious charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering, in July.
In a heartfelt letter addressed to Judge Arun Subramanian, Combs described his incarceration at a Brooklyn federal facility as both transformative and deeply challenging.
He recounted enduring over a year in confinement with 25 other inmates under harsh conditions, including lack of windows and access to clean drinking water.
He wrote: “I ask you for mercy today, not only for my sake, but for the sake of my children. God blessed me with 7 beautiful children – 3 sons and 4 daughters. I have failed my children as a father…
“I am unable to be there for my mother when she needs me most. As I write you this letter, I am scared to death. Scared to spend another second away from my mother and my children. I no longer care about the money or the fame. There is nothing more important to me than my family.(sic)”
The “All About the Benjamins” hitmaker wrote he had missed three of his daughters’ graduations and wasn’t able to help teach two-year-old Love Sean Combs how to speak.
He also shared that the psychological toll at times pushed him to the brink of despair.
Combs urged the court to recognize his personal growth and reform during his time behind bars.
He expressed remorse for his past actions, notably apologizing for physically assaulting his former girlfriend, singer Cassie Ventura, during their relationship.
Ventura, along with another woman who testified during the trial, shared their experiences of fear, control, and abuse in interactions with Combs.
Prosecutors cited these accounts as part of what they described as a broader pattern of harmful behaviour.
In light of the gravity of the offenses and Combs’ history of influence and power, prosecutors are requesting a minimum sentence of 11 years. However, his defense team has countered that the 13 months he has already served should be taken into consideration.
Combs also asked the court to consider his family obligations, including his role as a father to seven children and caregiver to his elderly mother, who is recovering from brain surgery.
Before the sentencing, Combs is expected to address the court directly. His legal team will also present a 15-minute video in support of their appeal for a lighter sentence.
The final ruling by Judge Subramanian will determine how much additional time Combs will serve for the two counts related to the transportation of individuals for prostitution.
