Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sentenced to 4 years in prison

Sean “Diddy” Combs, the 55-year-old hip-hop mogul and entrepreneur, was sentenced on Friday, October 3, 2025, to just over four years in federal prison after being found guilty of transporting women across state lines for prostitution. The decision was handed down in a Manhattan courtroom after months of legal proceedings that attracted global media attention.

The sentence — formally 50 months — comes in connection with violations of the Mann Act, a century-old law designed to prevent human trafficking and the exploitation of women. Combs was also ordered to pay a $500,000 fine and will face five years of supervised release following his time in prison. The judge emphasized that the punishment was intended to be “meaningful” while stopping short of the harsher penalties prosecutors had requested.

Combs had been acquitted earlier of more serious charges, including racketeering and sex trafficking, which carried potential decades-long sentences. Federal prosecutors had urged the court to impose a term of more than 11 years, portraying Combs as “unrepentant” and someone who used his wealth and influence to exploit vulnerable women. The judge, however, determined that while Combs’ actions were criminal and damaging, they did not warrant the maximum possible punishment.

Addressing the court before sentencing, Combs delivered a tearful statement in which he apologized to his family, supporters, and the women who testified against him. “I made terrible mistakes, and I have to live with that,” he said. “I am deeply sorry for the pain I caused.” His remarks came after several victims gave emotional statements describing the psychological toll of being manipulated into what prosecutors called “freak-off” parties, where sex acts were arranged and filmed.

Combs has been in custody since his arrest in September 2024, meaning the year he has already spent behind bars will be credited toward his sentence. Legal experts estimate he could be released in just over three years with good behavior.

The ruling marks a dramatic downfall for one of the most influential figures in music and fashion, whose empire once spanned record labels, luxury brands, and television. Outside the courthouse, reactions were divided, with some expressing sympathy for Combs’ family and others insisting the punishment was too lenient given the scope of the allegations.

For Combs, the verdict closes a chapter that has overshadowed his career and legacy, but it leaves behind a profound stain on the reputation of a man once celebrated as a cultural icon.