Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Legal Team Seeks Pardon from Trump, but He Faces Jail Until October Sentencing
Sean “Diddy” Combs, who was convicted on July 2, 2025, of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, remains incarcerated ahead of his sentencing in October. Although he was acquitted of more serious charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, he still faces up to 20 years in prison. As of now, a federal judge has denied multiple bail requests, citing risks that include potential flight or danger to others.
Combs’ legal team, led by attorney Nicole Westmoreland, has formally contacted the Trump administration to explore the possibility of a presidential pardon. Westmoreland told CNN, “It’s my understanding that we’ve reached out and had conversations in reference to a pardon,” adding that Combs “is a very hopeful person” and remains optimistic.
Despite that outreach, former President Donald Trump has signaled that a pardon is unlikely. While he acknowledged prior friendly interactions with Combs, Trump noted the artist’s outspoken criticisms during his presidential campaigns, saying such hostility makes clemency “more difficult to do.” When asked directly if a pardon is likely, Trump responded: “I would say so” (meaning he would probably deny it).
The judge overseeing the case, Arun Subramanian, denied Combs’ latest bail motion, insisting there are no “exceptional reasons” to release him before sentencing. The judge also emphasized concerns about potential risk and the seriousness of the charges.
Legal experts expect prosecutors to request a sentence in the range of four to five years, while Combs’ defence is pushing for a sentencing outcome closer to time already served. His formal sentencing date is set for October 3, 2025.
Combs remains confined at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, and his lawyers continue to pursue parallel legal strategies, including appeals and civil defences.