NEW YORK – Anticipation is building around Sean “Diddy” Combs as he awaits his sentencing on October 3, 2025. He was found guilty of two counts under the federal Mann Act related to prostitution, but cleared of the heavier charges of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking.
U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian set the sentencing date after a brief online hearing on July 8, closing a chapter in a case that has drawn widespread attention and sparked debate about Combs’ future. Since his arrest in September 2024, Combs has been held at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Centre.
He faces up to 20 years in prison, but experts believe his sentence will likely be much shorter. As the date nears, questions about bail and the actual time he might serve remain open.
The seven-week trial, which ended on July 2, 2025, brought a split verdict. Combs escaped possible life sentences on the most serious charges, but the jury convicted him on two lesser federal counts. Each carries up to 10 years.
Outside the Manhattan courthouse, Marc Agnifilo, his lead lawyer, called the verdict a “major win” for the defence. Still, the judge refused bail, citing Combs’ past violent actions and the risk he might try to leave the country. This decision has kept the 55-year-old founder of Bad Boy Records behind bars.
judge’s comments on Diddy
Legal experts have offered a range of predictions on what Combs’ sentence could look like. Some say it could be just over two years, while others think it could reach eight. CBS News contributor Jessica Levinson pointed out that Combs, with no previous convictions, is unlikely to serve the full 20 years.
She said the not-guilty verdicts on the most serious charges should lead to a lighter sentence. Robert Shapiro, the lawyer known for his work in the O.J. Simpson trial, suggested a term between 2.5 and 3.5 years. He mentioned that the judge’s comments on Combs’ past violence could still mean a tougher outcome.
Prosecutors have recommended a sentence of 51 to 63 months, or roughly four to five years. They have pointed to evidence linked to the sex trafficking claims, but a new federal rule bars judges from considering conduct that resulted in an acquittal.
Combs’ lawyers want a sentence between 21 and 27 months, noting his clean record and the nature of the charges. A pre-sentence report, due August 29, will give Judge Subramanian more details about Combs’ background and the events in question before he makes a final decision.
Bail has been a key issue throughout the case. Combs’ defence argued that his strong community ties make him unlikely to flee, suggesting a $1 million bond and noting that his private jet is in Hawaii. Judge Subramanian, however, has rejected every bail request.
Judge’s firm stance
He referred to evidence, including video footage and witness testimony, pointing to Combs’ violent behaviour, such as a 2024 incident with a former girlfriend called “Jane” and claims by ex-partner Cassie Ventura. “It is impossible for the defendant to show by clear and convincing evidence that he poses no danger,” the judge said, according to The Guardian.
Ira Judelson, a well-known bail bondsman, said talks about a new bail package are happening, but the judge’s firm stance is a major barrier. Judelson told Law&Crime that concerns about witness safety and Combs’ resources make granting bail difficult. Still, Combs’ lawyers are not giving up, with Agnifilo stating, “We are not nearly done fighting.”
The trial has sparked strong reactions on both sides. After the verdict, fellow inmates at the detention centre reportedly gave Combs a standing ovation, which his lawyer said showed his strength. Outside, opinions are split. Aubrey O’Day, once part of Combs’ “Making the Band,” posted on Instagram that the verdict made her “physically ill.” In contrast, Combs’ son Justin celebrated the acquittals.
Prosecutors argued that Combs ran a group using threats and violence to fuel illegal activities. The defence said the acts were consensual and should not be considered criminal. These opposing views could shape the judge’s final decision. Prosecutors highlighted Combs’ disregard for the law, while his lawyers pointed to his achievements in music and charity work.
Combs’ Ties to Trump
With the October 3 sentencing set, Combs’ legal team is preparing new motions, due by July 30. Prosecutors will reply by August 20. The defence had requested a quicker sentencing date, but later withdrew that request. Any time Combs has served since his September 2024 arrest will count toward his sentence, which could cut his remaining time behind bars.
Talk about a potential pardon has surfaced, given Combs’ ties to Donald Trump, but this is only speculation for now and would depend on political shifts. For the moment, Combs remains at the Metropolitan Detention Centre, with his lawyers readying for the final legal battle.
This sentencing will not only decide Combs’ future but also affect how people remember him. Whether he serves only a few more months or several years, many will be watching when the judge delivers the verdict on October 3.
Sources: CBS News
