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The artist known as Diddy will stand before a federal court judge in NYC on Friday to learn his fate following his guilty verdict this year on federal prostitution-related charges.

Court Verdict

After the extended trial that wrapped up in this past July, panel members acquitted Combs of the gravest allegations of human trafficking and racketeering conspiracy. Jurors, however, convict him on two counts of transporting people for prostitution.

The presiding judge now has the job of setting the sentence. Court activities are planned to begin at 10:00 AM ET.

Legal Context

Combs was accused of coercing two past associates into sexual situations involving drugs involving professional escorts. Had he been convicted on the most serious charges might have resulted in a lifetime behind bars.

Upon his acquittal of those accusations, he according to accounts fell to his knees to pray. His attorney remarked that he had “been given his life back”.

Likely Penalty

Nevertheless, the findings of guilt he was given both carry a possible of ten years behind bars pursuant to the federal Mann Act, which forbids crossing state lines to arrange commercial sex.

Federal prosecutors describe the behavior as major violations, whereas the legal defense has downplayed the charges as “fallback” allegations that ought not to have proceeded.

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Reports suggest that he aims to talk personally to the presiding officer before the sentence is delivered, despite not testifying in the court case.

Via a motion submitted last week, his lawyers asked that he be permitted to be present in “non-prison clothing” at the sentencing, similar to he had in the court case when he wore sweaters and collared shirts.

“The sentencing process holds significant importance for Mr. Combs,” the filing noted. “He wants to stand before the Court, make a statement, and allocate in the most honorable and respectful manner attainable.”

Sentencing Recommendations

A wide range of punishments is on the table, as prosecutors and defense attorneys have offered suggestions following US sentencing guidelines, although the ultimate ruling belongs to the court.

Prosecutors is advocating for at least eleven years and three months in prison – amounting to 11 years and three months – calling Combs “unrepentant” and pointing out coercive behavior that witnesses recounted.

The defense team are seeking up to just over a year, which considering time served would allow Combs to be released by the end of 2025. Their position is that his sentence has already been sufficient for what they say was willing intimate relations with compensated companions.

Court probation officers, at the same time, determined that the guideline range might amount to a maximum of 87 months.