In September, music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, another high-profile industry leader, was sentenced to 50 months in prison. He was found guilty on two counts of promoting prostitution. His conviction came as part of a legal proceeding that saw him acquitted of more serious charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. If Combs behaves, he can have his sentence cut down by as much as 12 months. This reduction can be granted if he successfully completes a specific treatment program.
The Federal Bureau of Prisons provides a Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP). This program takes place over nine to twelve months and directly addresses the substance abuse problems of federal inmates. Combs’ involvement in this program could dramatically reduce his prison sentence. Alexandra Shapiro, his attorney, will ask for a transfer on Combs’ behalf. She needed him transferred to Fort Dix, where they provide this much more intensive and focused program.
Combs was lucky enough to be dealt an early handfull of legal woes that would produce his conviction. Speaking on the impact of threats, while the charges against him were quite serious, the acquittals on more serious counts at least offered him some relief. The two convictions linked to prostitution earned him a lengthy prison sentence.
Shapiro has since filed a notice of appeal in the Federal District Court of New York. He is calling on the court to vacate Combs’ conviction and the length of his sentence. The appeal process can be a lengthy one, but it offers the possibility of significant relief. If his appeal is successful, it could change the trajectory of his imprisonment and possibly bring an earlier release.
Combs will be required to serve at least two-thirds of his 50-month sentence. This is assuming the best case scenario happens which is, him not getting any cut or successfully appealing his conviction. The RDAP gives him an opportunity to ease his sentence. If he engages and demonstrates commitment to the program, he might be returned to society sooner.
