Sean Combs is set to face a federal court judge in New York City Friday morning to receive his sentence following his guilty verdict this year on charges related to prostitution.
Court Verdict
Subsequent to the eight-week trial that concluded in the month of July, the jury cleared Combs of the gravest allegations of sex trafficking and racketeering. Jurors, however, convict him on two charges of transporting people for commercial sex acts.
Judge Subramanian now has the job of setting the penalty. Proceedings are set to begin at 10:00 AM ET.
Case Background
The accusations against Combs of coercing two former partners into drug-laced sexual encounters that included paid companions. Had he been convicted on the most serious charges would have led to a life in prison.
After being cleared of those claims, he according to accounts dropped to his knees in supplication. His attorney stated that he had “been given his life back”.
Likely Penalty
Nevertheless, the convictions he obtained both carry a maximum of 10 years in prison according to the Mann Act, which bans moving across state borders to enable sex work.
The government describe the conduct as grave offenses, while the defense has downplayed the charges as “fallback” charges that should not have proceeded.
Recent Developments
Sources indicate that Combs plans to address to the judge prior to the penalty is announced, although never testifying in the court case.
Via a motion filed recently, his legal representatives asked that he be allowed to appear in “non-prison clothing” at the hearing, similar to he had during the proceedings when he dressed in sweaters and collared shirts.
“This court hearing is extremely important for the defendant,” the filing stated. “He wants to stand before the bench, address Your Honor, and speak in the most dignified and dignified fashion possible.”
Suggested Sentences
Differing sentences are possible, as prosecutors and defense attorneys have made recommendations based on federal penalty standards, though the final decision rests with the court.
Federal attorneys is urging no less than eleven years and three months incarcerated – which equals 11 years and three months – calling Combs “not sorry” and pointing out coercive behavior that witnesses described.
The defense team are requesting a maximum of just over a year, which considering time served would allow Combs to leave custody by the conclusion of next year. They contend that his penalty has already been adequate for what they say was consensual sex with hired performers.
Probation officials, at the same time, calculated that the recommended sentencing range could reach a maximum of 87 months.
