White House Denies Trump’s Consideration of Pardoning Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs

The White House has officially refuted claims that President Donald Trump is contemplating a pardon for Sean “Diddy” Combs. This statement follows a report from TMZ suggesting that Trump was uncertain about commuting Combs’ prison sentence.
Clarification from the White House
A high-ranking official from the White House dismissed the TMZ report, stating, “There is zero truth to the TMZ report, which we would’ve gladly explained had they reached out before running their fake news.” This comment was made in a statement to NBC News. The official emphasized that decisions on pardons and commutations rest solely with the President.
TMZ’s Position
Casey Carver, a spokesperson for TMZ, affirmed their commitment to the story, stating, “We stand by our story.”
Sean Combs’ Legal Situation
Sean Combs was convicted in July on two counts related to prostitution. Although he faced additional charges of racketeering and sex trafficking, he was acquitted of those more serious allegations. On October 3, he received a 50-month prison sentence along with a $500,000 fine and five years of supervised release. Combs continues to plead not guilty and asserts his innocence.
Trump’s Past Comments on Combs
In an interview with Newsmax on August 1, Trump expressed mixed feelings about potentially pardoning Combs. He remarked on their previous amicable relationship but noted that Combs had made “some terrible statements” during Trump’s presidential campaign. This history complicates the prospect of a pardon.
Trump’s History of Pardons
During his second term, Trump has issued several controversial pardons. Notably:
- In January, he granted clemency to about 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot.
- In May, he pardoned reality television couple Todd and Julie Chrisley.
- Most recently, he commuted the sentence of former Rep. George Santos, who pleaded guilty to wire fraud and identity theft.
Combs’ Request for Placement
Combs has expressed a desire to serve his sentence at Federal Correctional Institution Fort Dix, a low-security facility in New Jersey. However, the Bureau of Prisons has not yet approved this request.
Conditions of Supervised Release
Following his prison term, Combs will face strict conditions during his supervised release. These include:
- Regular meetings with his probation officer.
- A drug test within 15 days of release, followed by two periodic tests.
- Mandatory participation in an outpatient treatment program focusing on mental health and domestic violence.
Legal Appeals
On Monday, Combs’ legal team filed a notice of appeal, seeking to overturn both the conviction and sentence. The Justice Department has yet to comment on this development.