MIAMI BEACH, Fla. – A federal judge has denied bail for Sean “Diddy” Combs, ordering the hip-hop mogul to remain in custody as he awaits sentencing for two federal prostitution-related convictions.
Combs was found not guilty Wednesday of the most serious federal charges against him — including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking — but was convicted on two lesser counts of transportation to engage in prostitution.
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Each count carries a maximum of 10 years in prison.
The judge reviewed written statements from prosecutors and defense attorneys Wednesday afternoon but ultimately ruled against giving Combs bail.
Local 10 News was outside Combs’ waterfront mansion on Star Island in Miami-Dade County Wednesday before the judge chose not to release the 55-year-old on bail following a mixed verdict in his high-profile criminal trial.
Authorities said they recovered guns, ammunition, video recordings, numerous bottles of baby oil and other evidence.
The jury, made up of eight men and four women, deliberated for several days after hearing from 34 prosecution witnesses, including two of Combs’ former romantic partners — Cassie Ventura and a woman testifying under the alias “Jane.”
Both women accused Combs of forcing them to participate in group sex acts referred to as “freak offs” and “hotel nights.”
In court earlier Wednesday, Combs turned to his supporters and said, “I’m coming home, baby,” after his defense attorney asked the judge to release him on bail.
Combs, 55, dropped to his knees and prayed in the courtroom after he was acquitted Wednesday of sex trafficking and racketeering charges that could have put one of hip-hop’s most celebrated figures behind bars for life. The rapper was convicted of lesser prostitution-related offenses and still faces prison time but might be released on bail.
The gate at Combs’ Star Island home remained closed for most of the day, but around 1:30 p.m., a white car was seen entering the property. A person was also spotted clearing leaves from the driveway.
A white car was seen pulling through the gate around 1:30 p.m., though it was unclear who was inside. A person was also spotted cleaning up leaves inside the property.
Combs faces up to 20 years in prison if sentenced to the maximum on the prostitution-related charges. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.
Legal analyst Mark Eiglarsh says the outcome of Combs’ trial was a major win for the music mogul.
Combs is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 3.
