It’s been nearly two weeks since a verdict was delivered in the trial of Diddy (Sean Combs). The 55-year-old rapper had ultimately received a mixed verdict, which saw him found guilty on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution but not guilty on a count of racketeering and s*x-trafficking each. Following the mixed verdict was delivered, Diddy was denied bail, and he’s currently awaiting his sentence. Legal experts, all the while, continue to weigh in on the matter, with O.J. Simpson’s former lawyer being one of the latest to do so via Cinemablend.
The racketeering (or RICO) charge in Diddy’s case was the most severe offense that prosecutors were pursuing. So some experts have opined that the embattled music and fashion mogul saw a significant win in that he was found guilty on that charge.
Robert Shapiro, however, is still of the belief that the rapper will receive 2.5 to 3.5 years. Additionally, Shapiro shared the following sentiments with Fox News:
“Whether or not he had a criminal history, I don’t know. That could raise it. But, having said that and having seen that this judge did not release him on bail, I think a message may be coming that you’re going to be spending a lot more time, so no reason to let you come out and come back in.”
Robert Shapiro is well-known for handling high-profile legal cases, notably as a key member of O.J. Simpson’s defense team during his trial for the murders of Nicole Brown and Ron Goldman. Ultimately, Shapiro and his colleagues were successful in their defense, leading to Simpson’s acquittal.
However, it is important to note that there are different factors to consider in the cases of Simpson and Sean Combs. Additionally, Combs has been convicted and is now facing jail time. Depending on the charges, he could face a maximum sentence of 20 years, although prosecutors have recommended a sentence of between four and five years.
Diddy’s stint in Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center began in late 2024 after he was arrested. Before he was taken into custody, the “Let’s Get It” performer was facing a number of lawsuits pertaining to alleged violence, sexual assault and s*x-trafficking. The first of those suits came in 2023 from his former girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, who also testified at his trial. A major point of discussion in the situation is the 2016 hotel footage that shows Diddy assaulting Ventura. Robert Shapiro thinks this could factor into sentencing, too:
“If the judge looks at that tape in his mind and is reminded about it again… I think there is a real chance that a substantial sentence will be forthcoming.”
