Sean Diddy Combs has asked an appeals court to release him from prison and overturn his conviction on two prostitution-related crimes.
In a court filing for an expedited appeal, the rap mogul's attorney argued that he was improperly sentenced, and that the conduct that resulted in his conviction was not criminal in nature.
Attorney Alexandra Shapiro called Combs' 50-month prison sentence unlawful, unconstitutional, and a perversion of justice. She requested that the appeals court order a resentencing should they choose not to throw out his conviction entirely.
This request marks the latest attempt by Combs’ legal team to reduce his sentence or overturn his conviction.
The Southern District of New York, who prosecuted Combs, has yet to comment on this recent appeal to the Second Circuit Court of Appeals.
In the high-profile spring trial, federal prosecutors accused Combs of using his influence and money to coerce women into unwanted sexual encounters. Despite acquitting him of the most serious charges such as racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, the jury convicted him of transportation to engage in prostitution.
Previous legal motions by Combs’ team sought either an acquittal or a new trial, asserting that an anti-prostitution statute, known as the Mann Act, was misapplied in his case. This bid was unsuccessful, leading up to his sentence.
Combs had hoped the judge would impose a sentence considering good character by opting for time served. However, prosecutors contended for at least an 11-year prison sentence. Ultimately, Judge Arun Subramanian sentenced him to 50 months, citing a need to uphold justice despite Combs' contributions to society.
The appeal challenges the notion that Judge Subramanian adhered to proper sentencing guidelines and alleges that he considered acquitted conduct when determining punishment, branding the sentence draconian.\
Before his sentencing, Combs expressed remorse, describing his past actions as disgusting and shameful. He is additionally facing numerous civil lawsuits related to sexual assault allegations, which he steadfastly denies.
