Hip-hop icon and business mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs has been sentenced to 50 months in federal prison after being convicted on prostitution-related charges earlier this year. The sentence was handed down in a Manhattan federal courtroom, concluding a months-long legal battle that drew national attention.

Combs, 55, was convicted in July 2025 on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. He was acquitted of more serious charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy, which prosecutors initially pursued as part of a broader investigation into alleged abuses tied to his entertainment businesses.

During a tense sentencing hearing, Combs addressed the court, offering a tearful apology and admitting his actions were “disgusting, shameful, and sick.” Despite his emotional plea and the defense’s request for leniency — suggesting a sentence of 14 months — the judge ultimately imposed a 50-month sentence, citing the harm inflicted on the victims.

“He abused them — physically, emotionally, and psychologically,” said U.S. District Judge Carla Mendoza. “These were not consensual relationships. This was exploitation under the guise of fame and fortune.”

Prosecutors had pushed for a stiffer sentence of up to 11 years, pointing to what they described as a pattern of coercive and manipulative behavior by Combs dating back nearly a decade.

Combs has been in custody since his arrest in September 2024, and will receive credit for time already served. His legal team is expected to file an appeal, though no formal motion has been submitted as of this writing.

This marks a stunning fall from grace for one of the most influential figures in hip-hop and fashion. Combs, known for launching the careers of artists like Notorious B.I.G. and founding Bad Boy Records, had amassed a multi-million dollar empire through music, fashion, and spirits branding.

The sentencing brings partial closure for several accusers who came forward during the trial, alleging years of mistreatment behind the scenes of Diddy’s glamorous public image. Civil lawsuits related to the case remain pending.