Diddy Files Appeal Of Mann Act Conviction & Four-Year Prison Sentence

Sean “Diddy” Combs is taking his legal fight to the next level. The music mogul has officially filed an appeal of his Mann Act conviction and four-year prison sentence, according to court filings on Monday, Oct. 20.

Diddy’s legal team, led by Alexandra A.E. Shapiro, is challenging the jury’s verdict, claiming the case criminalized consensual activity between adults. The appeal will be reviewed by a three-judge panel in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit.

Back in July, Diddy was acquitted of racketeering and sex trafficking, but found guilty of two counts under the Mann Act — a law dating back to 1910 that prohibits transporting individuals across state lines for prostitution.

Judge Arun Subramanian sentenced him to 50 months in prison and a $500,000 fine earlier this month. Prosecutors painted Diddy as “unrepentant,” while the defense argued he had already served time and should receive a lighter sentence.

Diddy addressed the court before sentencing, expressing remorse, but the judge emphasized the impact on victims. The court also recommended substance abuse treatment and placement near New York.

Diddy is currently being held at Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn while awaiting transfer. His team is pushing for him to serve time at FCI Fort Dix, a low-security facility in New Jersey, and argues the sentence was unfairly influenced by acquitted conduct — a move they call unconstitutional.

The appeal could shape how Mann Act cases are prosecuted in the future.