NEW YORK (AP) — Ahead of his sentencing, Sean “Diddy” Combs shared a deeply personal letter with a federal judge, revealing a year of reflection and transformation. After struggling with addiction and facing serious legal ramifications, Combs, 55, expressed that he feels like a new man, stating that he realized he was 'broken to my core.'


In his letter to Judge Arun Subramanian, Combs described the challenges he faced while incarcerated, mentioning the dark thoughts that haunted him. He acknowledged the grave mistakes of his past and took full responsibility, saying, 'I have made many mistakes, but I am no longer running from them.' His sentencing is set to begin Friday morning, in the wake of his conviction on two prostitution-related charges for which he could face up to 20 years total.


Despite being acquitted of more serious charges such as sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy, the atmosphere surrounding Combs remains tense. Prosecutors are seeking a lengthy sentence of more than 11 years in prison, while his defense argues for his immediate release, citing the year he has already served.


Combs’ letter included an explicit apology to his former girlfriend, Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, for a physical assault in 2016, which was documented on security cameras. He reflected on the imagery of the violence and its consequences, stating, 'I literally lost my mind.' In another section, he extended his remorse to another victim known as 'Jane,' solidifying his acknowledgment of the pain he has caused.


During his time behind bars, Combs sought redemption through education, working out, and teaching a course to fellow inmates. He opened up about his newfound sobriety after struggling with addiction for 25 years and expressed a strong commitment to never repeat his past mistakes.


In a plea for leniency, Combs highlighted the impact of his imprisonment on his family, specifically his children and elderly mother. He described the harsh conditions of confinement, painting a vivid picture of his current reality and asserting that his family is now his top priority, above fame and wealth.


If you allow me to go home to my family, I promise I will not let you down and I will make you proud, he concluded in his heartfelt letter, beseeching the judge to see him as a living testament to second chances rather than merely a statistic in the judicial system.