Diddy takes strategic steps to obtain a lighter sentence
Sean 'Diddy' Combs is already looking to rehabilitate his image ahead of his sentencing in October.
The rapper and mogul has been embroiled in a heavily publicised federal lawsuit that has left his fans and the public at large questioning his life choices and the strength of his character.
HOW DIDDY IS LOOKING TO MEND THE PUBLIC'S PERCEPTIONS OF HIM
Diddy, currently being detained at Brooklyn's Metropolitan Detention Centre, has decided to enrol in two programs while incarcerated.
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These are, namely, the Dr Harry K. Wexler drug abuse treatment program and the STOP Program, which focuses on domestic and dating violence prevention. These programs are widely used in federal facilities. The STOP program is aimed at educating inmates on the effects of domestic violence and sexual assault. The Wexler drug abuse program is focused on recovery and accountability when it comes to matters of drug abuse.
Both programs have a high success rate for those who complete the courses on offer.
WHY WOULD DIDDY THINK THIS MOVE WILL HELP HIS PUBLIC IMAGE?
Beyond looking to mend public perceptions, sources close to the case suggest that this is a strategic move in the hopes of exhibiting remorse and regret for his actions. Doing this before sentencing is also an attempt to garner some leniency.
Legal experts note that volunteering to engage in programs like this could influence any outcomes as it pertains to his sentencing. Rehabilitation of this nature especially in federal cases can be a mitigating factor.
WHAT THIS COULD MEAN FROM A LEGAL STANDPOINT
The American hip hop icon has endured the most challenging time in his career over the last two years. Things reached a fever pitch in July when Diddy was convicted on two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution. He was acquitted of the more serious charges involving racketeering and sex trafficking.
The prosecution is still hoping for a sentence of four years, while his defence team is advocating for a lighter term of around 15 to 21 months. Diddy's lawyers will use his enrollment in rehabilitation programs as evidence of him looking to better himself.
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DIDDY'S LEGAL WOES ARE STILL FAR FROM OVER
These latest reports around Diddy have raised questions as to his intentions. Are these genuine moves to better himself or simply an exercise in public relations? The Bad Boy Entertainment founder still has over 120 civil lawsuits pending.
DO YOU THINK DIDDY IS LOOKING TO GENUINELY ADDRESS HIS SHORTCOMINGS, OR IS THIS JUST A STUNT TO INFLUENCE HIS SENTENCING?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11.
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