Sean “Diddy” Combs is fighting his prison sentence. His legal team filed a formal notice of appeal this week. They are demanding his immediate release from federal custody.The appeal argues the judge overstepped his authority during sentencing. According to court documents obtained by Rolling Stone, the move seeks to either acquit Combs or order a new sentencing hearing. This marks a significant new phase in the high-profile legal battle.
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Attorney Alexandra Shapiro leads the appeal. She filed the notice in the U.S. Court of Appeals. The document strongly criticizes Judge Arun Subramanian’s conduct.Shapiro claims the judge acted as a “thirteenth juror.” She said he imposed findings that contradicted the jury’s verdict. The filing states the judge wrongly found Combs coerced and exploited women.These judicial findings, the appeal argues, led to an excessive sentence. It calls the 50-month term the highest ever for a similar case. The defense contrasts Combs with defendants who ran actual prostitution businesses.

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Judge Subramanian sentenced Combs in October. The sentence included a $500,000 fine. He was convicted on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution.The judge said a substantial sentence was necessary for accountability. He emphasized sending a message about exploitation and violence against women. Combs was acquitted on more severe sex trafficking and racketeering charges.This criminal case is just one part of his legal troubles. The music mogul faces multiple civil lawsuits alleging sex crimes. The Los Angeles Sheriff’s office also confirmed an ongoing sexual battery investigation.
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Sean Combs’s appeal now places his fate in the hands of a higher court. The outcome will be closely watched as a benchmark for high-profile sentencing. His quest for release faces substantial legal hurdles ahead.
A quick knowledge drop for you
What are Sean Combs’s lawyers appealing?
They are appealing his 50-month prison sentence and conviction. The notice argues the trial judge improperly overruled the jury’s findings. They seek either an acquittal or a completely new sentencing hearing.
What was Diddy originally sentenced for?
A federal jury found him guilty on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. He was sentenced to 50 months in prison and a $500,000 fine. He was acquitted on more serious charges that could have meant life in prison.
Does Diddy still face other legal cases?
Yes, he faces several civil lawsuits from accusers alleging sexual assault and misconduct. Separately, the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department has an open criminal investigation into him for sexual battery. These cases are proceeding independently of this appeal.
What happens next with the appeal?
The U.S. Court of Appeals will review the legal briefs from both sides. This process can take many months. The court will then decide to uphold, overturn, or modify the original sentence.
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