Sean “Diddy” Combs’ legal team is vowing to appeal his conviction, arguing that the judge punished him for crimes the jury explicitly rejected. Combs was sentenced to over four years in prison and fined $500,000 after being found guilty on two prostitution-related charges. He will receive credit for 12 months already served.
Defense Claims Sentence Based on Acquitted Conduct
Lead attorney Teny Geragos told ABC News that the verdict made clear Combs was acquitted of sex trafficking and RICO charges. “Not guilty means not guilty,” she said. Alexandra Shapiro, who will lead the appeal, argued that the judge “acted as a 13th juror” by basing the sentence on conduct tied to charges for which Combs was found not guilty.
Judge Cites Pattern of Violence
Judge Arun Subramanian emphasized the repeated nature of Combs’ crimes and his violence toward former partners. He said the sentence should send a message that “violence against women is met with real accountability” and that the court could not be assured Combs wouldn’t reoffend.
Defense Acknowledges Evidence, Pushes Rehabilitation
Shapiro admitted that video evidence of Combs assaulting Cassie Ventura was “the worst thing in the case” and contributed to the verdict. Geragos said Combs has taken responsibility for his violent past, though he wasn’t convicted of domestic violence. The defense argued the lengthy sentence undermines rehabilitation.
Lawyers Say Punishment Has Already Been Severe
Shapiro pointed to the damage to Combs’ reputation, career losses, civil lawsuits, and time already served as evidence that he’s been sufficiently punished. “That message has been sent in spades,” she said. The appeal will challenge the sentencing as inconsistent with the jury’s findings.
For more on Diddy’s case, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.