What Sean 'Diddy' Combs said in tearful remarks before being sentenced to more than 4 years in prison
Sean "Diddy" Combs delivered emotional remarks in court on Friday just before he was sentenced to more than four years in prison after being convicted of two prostitution-related counts.
Following a lengthy series of statements from the defense on Friday, Combs let out a deep exhale as he rose from his seat to address the judge.
"I want to thank you for giving me the chance to speak up for myself," Combs said. "One of the hardest things I've had to handle is having to be quiet, not being able to express how sorry I am for my actions."
Combs first apologized to his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, who was one of the key witnesses during his two-month trial.
"I want to personally apologize to Cassie Ventura for any harm that I've caused her, emotionally or physically. I don't take that lightly," Combs said.
He also apologized to another former girlfriend, who testified during the trial under the pseudonym, "Jane."
"I didn't mean to hurt you. I'm sorry I brought you into my mess," Combs said.
He then apologized to all victims of domestic violence who may have witnessed the 2016 hotel security camera video depicting him attacking Ventura.
"That video, that disgusting, despicable video, triggered a lot of people around the world," Combs said.
Combs told the judge he has changed for the better.
"I can't change the past but I can change the future," he said. "I ask your honor for mercy. I beg your honor for mercy. I ask your honor for a chance to be a father again. I ask your honor for a chance to be a son again. I ask your honor for a chance to be a leader in my community again. I ask your honor for a chance to get the help I desperately need to be a better person."
Combs said he would never put his hands on another person, saying "I learned my lesson."
He added, "I don't care about the fame, or the money, or the records of performing. I feel like if your honor gives me a chance to share my story, this will have a positive impact ... at least I can help one person for not ending up like this."
Choking up at one point, Combs told the judge he lost his freedom, his ability to care for his children and his mother and his self respect.
"I've been humbled and broken to my core. I hate myself right now," Combs said. I've been stripped down to nothing. I really am truly sorry for all of it regardless of what they said.
He turned to his family in the gallery and offered an individual apology to each of his seven children and then to his mother.
"You taught me better," Combs said through tears. "You raised me better."
