Hours before his sentencing for two prostitution-related convictions, American rapper Sean Combs has issued a heartfelt apology in a letter to the judge handling his case.
In the four-page letter, Combs expressed that he takes “full responsibility and accountability” for his actions, apologized to everyone he has hurt, and pleaded for leniency at his upcoming sentencing.
“First and foremost, I want to apologize and say how sincerely sorry I am for all of the hurt and pain that I have caused others by my conduct. I take full responsibility and accountability for my past wrongs,” he wrote.
Combs directly addressed both Cassie Ventura and the woman who testified under the name “Jane” at trial, acknowledging the pain he caused them.
“I literally lost my mind. I was dead wrong for putting my hands on the woman that I loved. I’m sorry for that and always will be. My domestic violence will always be a heavy burden that I will have to forever carry,” he said about Cassie.
Regarding Jane, he added, “Your honor, I thought I was providing for Jane concerning her and her child, but after hearing her testimony, I realized that I hurt her. For this I am deeply sorry.”
Reflecting on his past, Combs described his crimes as being “rooted in (his) selfishness” and admitted that he had been “lost in the drugs and the excess.” He said his year in prison has transformed him.
“There have been some days I thought I would be better off dead. The old me died in jail and a new version of me was reborn. Prison will change you or kill you, I choose to live,” Combs wrote.
He pleaded for a lighter sentence, emphasizing his desire to rebuild his life and reconnect with family. “I ask you for mercy today, not only for my sake, but for the sake of my children,” he said. “Another chance to be a better father, another chance to be a better son, another chance to be a better leader in my community, and another chance to live a better life.”
Combs is scheduled to be sentenced this Friday and intends to address the court in “the most dignified and respectful fashion possible,” according to a court filing last week.
Federal prosecutors are seeking a prison term of at least 11 years, while Combs’ attorneys are requesting time served. Combs has been in custody since his arrest in September 2024.
