Sean "Diddy" Combs' legal team has reached out to President Donald Trump in hopes of securing a pardon following Combs' recent conviction on prostitution-related charges. A source close to the defense team confirmed this development on Tuesday. Combs was found guilty of two counts of interstate prostitution but was acquitted of more serious charges, including racketeering and sex trafficking, in July.
Nicole Westmoreland, a member of Combs' defense team, stated, "It’s my understanding that we’ve reached out and had conversations in reference to a pardon." This confirmation comes as Trump acknowledged in a recent interview that discussions about Combs have taken place, although he did not indicate a decision had been made.
During an interview with Newsmax, Trump expressed uncertainty about granting a pardon. He noted, "You know, I was very friendly with him. I got along with him great. And seemed like a nice guy, I didn’t know him well, but when I ran for office, he was very hostile." When asked if he was leaning toward a "no" regarding a pardon for Combs, Trump replied, "I would say so."
Combs, the founder of Bad Boy Records, faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on October 3. He has been in custody since his arrest in September 2024. A federal judge recently denied his request for bail, meaning he will remain detained until his sentencing.
Federal prosecutors accused Combs of using his influence and wealth to exploit women over two decades. They alleged that he coerced women into participating in drug-fueled sexual encounters with male sex workers while he filmed the acts. Combs has pleaded not guilty to all charges and maintains his innocence.
Despite the challenges, Westmoreland expressed optimism about Combs' outlook, stating, "[Combs] is a very hopeful person, and I believe that he remains hopeful." A White House official declined to comment on the status of any clemency request, stating, "The White House will not comment on the existence or nonexistence of any clemency request."
As the legal proceedings continue, the focus remains on the upcoming sentencing and the potential for a pardon from the president.