Overview

• After a 90-minute hearing, Judge Arun Subramanian said he will decide "very shortly" on the defense motion to vacate the convictions or grant a new trial.
• Defense lawyer Alexandra Shapiro argued Combs’ conduct was "commercial voyeurism" and the filming of the encounters made it protected expression, not prostitution.
• Prosecutors countered that the Mann Act targets the transportation for paid sex, citing evidence Combs financed interstate travel, arranged the encounters, and used violence and drugs to coerce participation.
• Sentencing remains set for October 3 if the convictions stand; Combs has been jailed since September 2024 and was twice denied bail.
• The defense seeks a 14‑month, time‑served sentence, while prosecutors are preparing a multi‑year recommendation due by September 29, with each count carrying up to 10 years.