How long could Diddy go to prison for?
(NEXSTAR) – A jury acquitted music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs of the most serious offenses at his New York trial, finding him not guilty of racketeering and sex-trafficking charges but guilty of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution.
Combs, 55, had faced the possibility of life in prison if convicted on all charges. A racketeering conviction alone carried a potential life sentence, while the sex trafficking charges carried mandatory minimum sentences of 15 years, or as much as life.
The maximum sentence Combs faces for violating the Mann Act — which is what he was found guilty of — are significantly less harsh: A conviction carries a sentence of up to 10 years in prison for each count.
The Mann Act makes it a federal crime to transport “any individual, male or female, in interstate or foreign commerce or in any territory or possession of the United States for the purpose of prostitution or sexual activity,” per the U.S. Department of Justice.
In Combs’ case, the prosecution had successfully argued that he flew people around the country, including his girlfriends and paid male sex workers, to engage in sexual encounters.
Combs has been behind bars since his arrest in September. His lawyers argued that the acquittal on the most serious counts changed the legal landscape enough that he should get bail. The judge has said the bond matter will be discussed Wednesday afternoon, Deadline reported.
In any case, Diddy appeared at least somewhat satisfied with the verdict, holding up his hands in prayer after it was read, the Associated Press reported. He was also seen pumping his fist subtly.
At one point after the verdict was read, he also addressed his family members who supported him in court, saying, “I’ll be home soon.”
Comb's sentencing will ultimately be determined at a later date.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.