July 2, 2025 NEW YORK, NY – Sean “Diddy” Combs, the music icon once lauded for his transformative impact on hip-hop, will remain behind bars after a federal judge denied his request for bail on Wednesday. This decision comes despite Combs being acquitted of the most severe charges of sex trafficking and racketeering, which could have meant a life sentence.

U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian, presiding over the Manhattan federal court hearing, cited "ample evidence" of violent acts committed by Combs as the reason for his continued detention in a Brooklyn federal lockup. "It is impossible for the defendant to demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that he poses no danger," Judge Subramanian stated, setting a tentative sentencing date of October 3, while open to an earlier defense request.

A Mixed Verdict: Lesser Charges Lead to Conviction

The verdict, read earlier in the day, was a significant win for Combs overall. A 12-member jury unanimously convicted him on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. However, he was acquitted of the more serious charges of racketeering conspiracy and two counts of sex trafficking involving former romantic partners Casandra "Cassie" Ventura and a woman identified as Jane.

Each of the two prostitution counts carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. Federal sentencing guidelines, according to prosecutors, appear to recommend a maximum of 5-1/4 years, while Combs' lawyers argued for an even shorter term of two years.

From Jubilation to Jailed: The Courtroom's Shifting Mood

The scene in court quickly shifted from one of jubilant celebration for Combs and his supporters to a somber reality. Following the verdict, Combs had reportedly smiled and clasped his hands, telling the courtroom, "I’m gonna be home soon… I love you. Thank you, I love you." His family and supporters erupted in cheers.

However, as Judge Subramanian denied bail, Combs reportedly stared straight ahead, while a family member in the gallery hung their head. This stark contrast underscored the weight of the judge's decision.

Prosecutors Argue "Extraordinarily Dangerous Temper"

Combs' legal team had argued for his release on a $1 million bond, asserting that the prostitution offenses were "far less serious" than the sex trafficking and racketeering charges he initially faced.

Prosecutors, however, vehemently opposed bail, maintaining that Combs remained a significant danger to the community. Prosecutor Maurene Comey pointed to Jane's trial testimony, which alleged that Combs assaulted her and coerced her into sex with a male prostitute in June 2024, even while he was under federal investigation. "The only things exceptional about this defendant are his wealth, his violence and his brazenness," Comey asserted in court. "He's an extremely violent man with an extraordinarily dangerous temper who has shown no remorse and no regret."

"Freak Offs" and the Battle for "Sex Trafficking" Definition

The seven-week trial delved into prosecutors' allegations that Combs, over two decades, leveraged his vast business empire to compel Ventura and Jane into drug-fueled, multi-day sexual performances, sometimes dubbed "Freak Offs," with male sex workers. These events allegedly took place in hotel rooms, with Combs observing, masturbating, and at times, filming.

Prosecutors had attempted to prove that Combs' actions constituted sex trafficking, arguing he used physical violence and threats of financial withdrawal or explicit image leaks to force Ventura and Jane's participation. The jury's acquittal on the more serious charges suggests they did not find a direct link between Combs' alleged abuse and the women's involvement in these sexual performances.

Defense Points to "Consensual" Participation

The defense acknowledged instances of domestic violence by Combs but countered that Ventura and Jane were "strong, independent women" who "consensually" took part in the sexual performances because they sought to please Combs.

Sarah Krissoff, a former federal prosecutor in Manhattan, suggested the jury might have viewed Combs' conduct as indicative of toxic romantic relationships rather than sex trafficking. "It doesn't fit what they would expect to be sex trafficking," said Krissoff, now a partner at Cozen O'Connor.

What's Next for Diddy? Legal Battles Continue

The Bad Boy Records founder, who faced a potential life sentence, will now prepare for sentencing on the two prostitution-related counts. His legal woes, however, are far from over. Combs, who has denied all wrongdoing, is still facing dozens of civil lawsuits alleging abuse. Notably, Casandra "Cassie" Ventura sued him for sex trafficking in November 2023, settling the case for $20 million just one day later.

Following the verdict, Ventura's lawyer, Douglas Wigdor, credited his client with "paving the way" for Combs' conviction. As Combs' legal battles continue, the public watches to see the next chapter for the music mogul once synonymous with lavish parties and elevating hip-hop culture.