NEW YORK (BN24) — Federal prosecutors have rejected music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs’ $50 million bail request, arguing that the 55-year-old poses a serious flight risk and remains a danger to the community; while also warning he could face a significantly longer prison sentence than previously expected.
In a court filing on Thursday, prosecutors said Combs may receive a sentence “substantially higher” than the initial 4–5 year estimate following his conviction on two federal charges related to the transportation of individuals for prostitution. Each charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. The new assessment suggests sentencing guidelines could justify a term beyond what was originally anticipated.
Combs was acquitted earlier this month of more severe charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, both of which carried potential life sentences. However, he was convicted on two counts involving the arrangement of sexual encounters with both women and male sex workers—acts prosecutors say he sometimes filmed.
Prosecutors have asked that Combs remain at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn until his sentencing, which is scheduled for October 3. They assert that Combs has failed to demonstrate “exceptional circumstances” that would justify his release ahead of sentencing, and pointed to what they described as an “extensive history of violence” that makes his continued detention necessary.
Defense attorney Marc Agnifilo has argued for Combs’ release, citing what he called inhumane jail conditions, the music executive’s ongoing commitment to his seven children, and his claim that the case has been unfairly politicized. Agnifilo characterized Combs’ lifestyle as consensual and non-criminal, describing it as “a swingers lifestyle” and denying that he poses any danger to the public.
Still, prosecutors contend that Combs’ past conduct and the risk of flight override any claims about improved behavior or family obligations. They argue that his access to wealth and international connections further increase the chances he could flee the country if released.
U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian, who previously denied Combs’ initial bail motion, is expected to make a final ruling on the renewed request in the coming days.
