Hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs was sentenced Friday to four years and two months in prison for transporting individuals across state lines for sexual encounters, concluding a high-profile federal case that exposed years of abuse and exploitation.

Having already served a year in jail, the 55-year-old could be released in roughly three years. Prosecutors had sought a sentence exceeding 11 years, while Combs’ lawyers argued he should be freed immediately, saying his time in custody has led to remorse and sobriety.

Combs was convicted in July of flying girlfriends and male sex workers across the U.S. to participate in drug-fueled sexual acts over many years. He was acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering charges that carried potential life sentences.

U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian, who also imposed a $500,000 fine, criticized Combs’ use of power and resources to continue the abuse undetected. The judge praised the accusers for giving voice to countless victims of similar exploitation.

Combs appeared subdued in court, apologizing to his family before leaving. His lawyers confirmed plans to appeal, arguing the judge had effectively second-guessed the jury’s verdict.

During the nearly two-month trial in Manhattan, witnesses testified that Combs physically assaulted, threatened, sexually abused, and blackmailed women. Prosecutors said sparing him serious prison time would excuse years of violence and exploitation.

Under the Mann Act, which prohibits transporting people across state lines for sexual crimes, Combs faced conviction despite his defense’s argument that the law was misapplied.

Former girlfriend Casandra “Cassie” Ventura testified that Combs coerced her into sex with strangers hundreds of times during their decade-long relationship, and videos shown to the jury captured him dragging and beating her in a hotel hallway. Another woman, identified as “Jane,” testified she was pressured into sexual acts with male workers during drug-fueled “hotel nights” while Combs watched and sometimes filmed.

Six of Combs’ seven children pleaded for leniency, with daughter D’Lila urging the judge to allow the family to heal.

Outside the courthouse, fans and onlookers expressed mixed reactions. Sade Bess, a Combs supporter, said the sentence balanced mercy for the artist with recognition of the victims’ suffering.