Trump rules out pardon for Sean 'Diddy' Combs after request: Reports

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump has ruled out granting a presidential pardon to music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, ending speculation about a possible early release. Reports say Trump received a letter from Combs requesting clemency but decided not to consider it, meaning the rapper will continue serving his prison sentence.

The clarification comes months after Combs was sentenced and follows earlier reports suggesting Trump had been weighing his options. Trump has now publicly stated that he will not intervene in the case. 

Trump declines to pardon music mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs

According to The New York Times, President Donald Trump addressed the issue during a two-hour interview on Thursday, January 8. Trump told reporters that Combs had asked him for a pardon through a letter but said he is not considering granting one.

In November 2025, Combs was reportedly telling fellow inmates at FCI Fort Dix in New Jersey that he expected to receive a presidential pardon in early 2026. That expectation now appears misplaced, as Trump has taken a firm stance against clemency.

Following Combs’ sentencing in October 2025, his legal team had contacted a senior White House official with direct access to Trump to explore the possibility of a pardon. Variety reported that Trump confirmed receiving the request, stating that Combs had “asked me for a pardon.”

Previously, TMZ reported that Trump was “vacillating” on whether to commute Combs’ sentence. During an earlier press conference, Trump said he would review the situation, adding, “I’d look at what’s happening... he used to really like me a lot.” His latest remarks suggest that any reconsideration is now off the table.

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sentenced to 50 months in prison

Sean “Diddy” Combs is currently serving a 50-month prison sentence following convictions on multiple charges. Prosecutors said the case involved arranging drug-fueled sexual encounters across state lines over several years.

Combs and his legal team had sought a reduced sentence of 14 months, including time already served, but the court denied the request. Judge Arun Subramanian handed down the sentence in October 2025, citing the seriousness of the offenses.

During sentencing, Combs addressed the court in a 12-minute statement, asking for mercy and expressing remorse. He will receive credit for approximately 13 months already served and will be subject to strict monitoring for five years after his release.

With Trump ruling out a pardon, Combs is expected to serve the remainder of his sentence as ordered by the court.