NEW YORK (AP) Sean "Diddy" Combs' legal team is advocating for his placement in a low-security federal prison in New Jersey, specifically FCI Fort Dix, as he begins to serve a four-year, two-month prison sentence. In a letter submitted to Judge Arun Subramanian, Combs' attorneys emphasized that the prison's drug treatment program would be beneficial in helping the hip-hop mogul maintain sobriety.
Combs' lawyers have urged Judge Subramanian to "strongly recommend" that the Federal Bureau of Prisons facilitate Combs' relocation to FCI Fort Dix, which is situated on the McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst military base. They argue that the facility would allow Combs to effectively address his drug abuse issues while also maximizing family visitation opportunities and rehabilitation efforts. Teny Geragos, one of Combs' attorneys, elaborated on the need for such support during this critical time.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump disclosed to reporters that Combs had formally requested a pardon. Trump, referring to Combs by his previous stage name "Puff Daddy," did not clarify whether he would consider the request. Combs’ legal team and publicity representatives have not publicly responded to Trump's remarks.
Combs was sentenced last Friday after being convicted on charges related to the transportation of individuals across state lines for sexual encounters. This federal case was marked by disturbing evidence, featuring testimonies that highlighted themes of violence, drugs, and exploitation. The singer, who achieved significant fame with songs like "I'll Be Missing You," was found guilty under the Mann Act, which prohibits the transportation of individuals for sexual crimes. His trial concluded with mixed results; while he was acquitted on sex trafficking and racketeering charges, the convictions led to his current sentence.
Since his arrest in September 2024, Combs has been held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. Time served there will count towards his sentence, potentially allowing for an early release within approximately three years. Ahead of his sentencing, Combs expressed a commitment to personal growth and sobriety in a letter to Judge Subramanian, stating that he has experienced a "spiritual reset" during his incarceration and is dedicated to remaining "a drug-free, non-violent, and peaceful person."
Judge Subramanian has not yet made a decision regarding the recommendation for Combs' placement at FCI Fort Dix. While judges can provide recommendations on an inmate's placement, the ultimate decision rests with the Bureau of Prisons, which considers a variety of factors, including the nature of the offense and the inmate’s programming needs.
FCI Fort Dix currently houses nearly 3,900 inmates and is known as the largest federal prison by population. It is located approximately 64 miles southwest of New York City, where Combs has deep roots as both a rapper and entrepreneur across various sectors, including fashion and television. The prison's adjacent minimum-security camp accommodates an additional 210 inmates. Notably, Combs previously owned a home in New Jersey, although he sold it nearly a decade ago. His present residences include a mansion valued at $48 million on an island near Miami and another property in Los Angeles that were both subjected to federal raids during the investigation preceding his arrest.
Throughout its history, FCI Fort Dix has been home to a range of notable inmates, including notorious mobsters and politicians. The prison has faced controversy as well, with incidents involving violence and the smuggling of contraband. In recent years, security lapses have been highlighted, including a drone incident that allowed for the delivery of contraband items and the arrest of a correctional officer who was found guilty of accepting bribes.
As Combs prepares for his final sentencing phase, his fate remains uncertain, with the next steps dependent both on the Bureau of Prisons and the outcome of his pardon request.
