Sean Combs, also known as “Diddy,” is seeking a new trial or acquittal from the judge overseeing his case before he has even been sentenced. In a 62-page memorandum filed on Wednesday, Combs’ defense team argues that he was unfairly targeted by the federal government and that his conviction was “unconstitutional” and unprecedented.
Combs was convicted of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution earlier this month but acquitted on more serious charges of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. During his trial, prosecutors accused Combs of leading a criminal enterprise made up of some of his closest employees, alleging they used threats, violence, forced labor, bribery, and other crimes to force women into drug-fueled sex acts.
However, Combs’ lawyers argue that the sex acts were consensual and part of a “swingers'” lifestyle. They contend that had Combs only been charged with the two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, his trial would have been entirely different with less evidence of violence presented to the jury.
Combs’ defense team states that he is the only person in America to be convicted under the Mann Act under his circumstances and that his conviction stands alone but should not stand at all. They argue that the government’s charges were not supported by credible evidence, and the jury rejected them.
The filing also criticizes the prosecution for painting Combs as a monster and accusing him of running a 20-year racketeering enterprise and sex trafficking multiple women. The defense team claims that Combs is the only person ever convicted of violating the statute for conduct anything like this.
Combs’ lawyers argue that the “Freak-Off” videos, which were presented in trial, are not proof of coercion or prostitution but rather “amateur porn.” They claim that the videos have expressive content and are protected by the First Amendment.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/07/31/entertainment/sean-diddy-combs-asks-acquit-unconstitutional