Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Legal Team Files Motion for Acquittal or New Trial in Federal Case
In a significant legal development, Sean “Diddy” Combs’ defense team has submitted a 64-page memorandum seeking either an acquittal or a new trial following his recent federal criminal conviction. The filing comes months before the rap mogul’s scheduled sentencing for two Mann Act violations.
Key Points of the Legal Filing
Despite facing extensive allegations, Combs was convicted only on two counts under the Mann Act, with the jury rejecting broader racketeering and sex trafficking charges. His legal team argues that the application of the Mann Act in this case is “unprecedented.”
The defense team emphasizes several crucial points:
- All participants in the events were consenting adults
- No commercial motive existed for the activities
- The defendant never profited from alleged prostitution
- All travel arrangements were voluntary
Constitutional and Legal Arguments
The defense argues that the Mann Act should be interpreted narrowly in this case, noting that the statute doesn’t explicitly define “prostitution.” They contend that applying the Act to Combs’ conduct raises significant constitutional concerns.
First Amendment Defense
In an unexpected argument, the defense claims that recordings of the events constitute protected artistic expression under the First Amendment, describing them as “creative, intricate and highly choreographed” content.
Current Status and Potential Outcomes
Combs remains detained at the Metropolitan Correction Center in Brooklyn since his September arrest. His team recently requested release on a $50 million bond with home confinement, which awaits Judge Aron Subramanian’s decision.
Sentencing Details
The sentencing is scheduled for October 3, with potential outcomes ranging from time served to a maximum of 20 years in prison. The Justice Department has indicated it will seek a substantial sentence, particularly considering evidence of domestic abuse that emerged during the trial.
Combs has publicly apologized for past violent acts, calling them “inexcusable” and accepting “full responsibility” for his actions. The case continues to draw significant attention in both legal and entertainment circles.