Judge Subramanian Sentences Diddy, Tells Him, ‘You Have A Megaphone — Use It for Good’

India-West News Desk

NEW YORK, NY — “You abused them, physically, emotionally, and psychologically,” Judge Arun Subramanian told Sean “Diddy” Combs in a Manhattan courtroom on October 3, delivering a scathing condemnation of the hip-hop mogul before sentencing him to 50 months in prison for two prostitution-related convictions. “Why did it happen for so long? Because you had the power and resources to keep it going, and because you didn’t get caught.”

With credit for time served, Combs will remain behind bars for about 36 more months. He was also fined $500,000 and will serve five years of supervised release after his prison term.

Subramanian’s words left little doubt that celebrity and influence would not shield Combs from accountability. He rejected the defense’s argument that Combs’ highly choreographed “freak offs” were harmless or consensual, saying: “These were not ‘sex, drugs, and rock ’n’ roll’ stories. Given the prevalence of sexual violence in society, a substantial sentence must be given to send a message to abusers and victims alike that abuse against women is met with real accountability.”

Subramanian added: “I know you feel like you are in a dark place now, but these crimes were serious ones, and your violence, coercion, and abuse have had devastating consequences for the women involved — women who loved and depended on you.” Acknowledging the letters of support for Combs, the judge said: “You and your family, you are going to get through this. There is a light at the end of the tunnel.”

Before adjourning, Subramanian issued a challenge: “We all have voices. You have a megaphone. Use it to do good for survivors of domestic violence.”

The judge addressed the victims directly, speaking to Casandra “Cassie” Ventura and another woman who testified under the pseudonym “Jane”: “To Ms. Ventura and the other brave survivors who came forward, I want to say first: we heard you. I know your families are proud of you, and your children, when they are old enough, will be proud of you. And I am proud of you for coming to court to tell the world what really happened.”

Earlier in the proceedings, Combs had begged for mercy, apologizing to his ex-girlfriends and describing his actions as “disgusting, shameful, and sick.”

But the judge made clear that remorse alone could not erase years of abuse: “Nothing about this case is good. Except for the victims who came forward.”