On the eve of his sentencing, Sean “Diddy” Combs submitted a four-page letter to the federal judge overseeing his case, apologizing for his actions and asking for leniency.
“I take full responsibility and accountability for my past wrongs,” Combs wrote. “First and foremost, I want to apologize and say how sincerely sorry I am for all of the hurt and pain that I have caused others by my conduct.”
Direct Apologies to Cassie Ventura and “Jane”
Combs addressed his ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, directly, admitting to domestic violence.
“I literally lost my mind. I was dead wrong for putting my hands on the woman that I loved,” he said. “I’m sorry for that and always will be.”
He also apologized to another woman, identified in court as “Jane”, who testified at trial. “I thought I was providing for Jane concerning her and her child, but after hearing her testimony, I realized that I hurt her. For this, I am deeply sorry,” Combs wrote.
Claims of Change After Prison Time
The Bad Boy Records founder, who has been in custody since September 2024, told the court that prison has changed him.
“The old me died in jail and a new version of me was reborn,” Combs said. “Prison will change you or kill you—I choose to live.”
He added that a lighter sentence would allow him to rebuild his role as a father, son, and community leader. “I ask you for mercy today, not only for my sake, but for the sake of my children,” he pleaded.
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Jury Verdict and Charges
In July, a jury found Combs guilty of two prostitution-related charges involving Ventura and “Jane,” both connected to hotel-room encounters prosecutors described as “freak-offs.”
He was acquitted on more serious charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion.
Sentencing Debate
Federal prosecutors have requested an 11-year prison sentence, arguing that Combs has remained “unrepentant” and that his victims continue to live in fear.
His defense attorneys countered with a request for 14 months—the amount of time he has already served—arguing that his incarceration has been sufficient punishment.
The judge is scheduled to announce Combs’ sentence on Friday.
