(NEXSTAR) – A jury has cleared music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs of the most serious charges in his New York trial. Although he was found not guilty of racketeering and sex-trafficking, he was convicted on two counts related to transporting someone for prostitution.
At 55, Combs was looking at a potential life sentence if found guilty on all charges, with racketeering alone carrying such a severe penalty. The sex trafficking accusations came with mandatory minimums of 15 years, potentially extending to life imprisonment.
The penalties for violating the Mann Act, which are the charges Combs was convicted of, are notably less stringent. Each count carries a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison.
The Mann Act makes it a federal crime to transport “any individual, male or female, in interstate or foreign commerce or in any territory or possession of the United States for the purpose of prostitution or sexual activity,” per the U.S. Department of Justice.
In Combs’ case, the prosecution had successfully argued that he flew people around the country, including his girlfriends and paid male sex workers, to engage in sexual encounters.
Combs has been behind bars since his arrest in September. His lawyers argued that the acquittal on the most serious counts changed the legal landscape enough that he should get bail. The judge has said the bond matter will be discussed Wednesday afternoon, Deadline reported.
In any case, Diddy appeared at least somewhat satisfied with the verdict, holding up his hands in prayer after it was read, the Associated Press reported. He was also seen pumping his fist subtly.
At one point after the verdict was read, he also addressed his family members who supported him in court, saying, “I’ll be home soon.”
Comb’s sentencing will ultimately be determined at a later date.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
