Yearly Archives: 2025

cricket, culture, economy, entertainment, sports

Sam Konstas hit a century nobody could watch. But everyone is talking about it

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Park cricketers have long enjoyed the luxury of putting a little GST, also referred to as mayonnaise, on their efforts at the crease. They can embellish a knock however they like to mates and family members who weren’t there to see it. Sam Konstas found himself in a similar situation after compiling 109 for Australia A against India A in Lucknow last month.

It was the century that has Australian cricket talking, but like a tree falling in the woods, only a handful of people at the Ekana Cricket Stadium and some online scorecards could verify it happened. Remarkably, in a country obsessed with cricket, Konstas’ polished innings wasn’t streamed or televised. A wagon wheel on the BCCI website revealed where Konstas picked off his runs and boundaries—57 per cent into the leg side—plus a six over long-on, but beyond that, the details are scant.

In his only interview since returning from his first proper playing stint in India—Konstas spent time training at the MRF Academy in Chennai last year—the rising star offered his version of that innings, more than two months on from a challenging Test tour of the West Indies, where he managed 50 runs across six innings on difficult pitches.

“It was actually a really tough green-seamer, and it was spinning too,” Konstas said with a grin. “So yeah, it was one of my best hundreds.”

Jokes aside, Konstas is pleased to be back in the runs. The incumbent Australian opener will need plenty more to begin the Sheffield Shield season, which starts on Saturday with NSW facing Western Australia at the WACA, South Australia hosting Victoria, and Queensland taking on Tasmania.

Konstas, who landed back in Australia on Monday, is happy to paint an honest picture. “It was actually a nice wicket to bat on,” he said. “As the day went on, it did spin quite a bit. They had a quality side. The first session, I thought they bowled really well, and it was seaming a little bit. When the spinners came on, since the wicket was a bit flat, I decided to try and take the game on. I was lucky enough to get a few away against the spinners. The innings progressed really nicely, and then I got out for 109. All my hard work [is showing].”

There was one moment, however, five balls into Konstas’ innings, that the now 20-year-old—his birthday was on Thursday—probably wishes never made its way out of India. A local journalist tweeted that Konstas had once again pulled out the audacious stroke that shocked the cricket world on Boxing Day last year.

“Sam Konstas has already attempted one reverse scoop in the first over!” Sportstar reporter Sahil Mathur wrote on X.

Konstas laughed when asked if it was true. “It is true,” he said. “I tried to reverse ramp first over to a ball on eighth stump. It wasn’t the right thing to do at that time. It happens sometimes. The other innings I was really good. I had a lot of clarity and just reacting to the ball.”

Did the Indians laugh or sledge him about it? “I think they were probably just used to it when I played [them] at the MCG and the SCG,” Konstas said. “They were a very good attack. It wasn’t the right shot to play at that time.”

It begs the question: has Konstas really changed his ways? Will there still be another rush of blood when he walks out to bat for NSW this week? It’s certainly a shot that makes purists grumble, but it has been a profitable one for Konstas, and he has never been dismissed playing it.

As always, runs are the only currency that matters, but the exchange rate will be high in the opening rounds of the Sheffield Shield, with places in Australia’s batting order up for grabs before the first Ashes Test in Perth on November 21.

Konstas’ scores of 109, 27 not out, 49, and 3 against a quality India A attack were, to use a phrase that will become a cricket cliché over the next six weeks, a timely reminder of his talent.

“I’ve grown a lot from those two or three weeks,” Konstas said. “It’s obviously a good reward to have, especially with all my hard training. The Caribbean was probably the best thing that happened to me. I learnt a lot about myself. As an athlete, you’re gonna fail a lot more than you succeed. It’s how you deal with your failures.

“The standard was really high. India A played a good team in their home conditions. I was really happy with my other digs. Even though I got out for 49, I thought it was the best I felt in terms of my mental headspace and the way I was moving. It’s also a lot hotter there, and it was about understanding not to hit a lot of balls during training, have that extra time off, just so I am mentally refreshed. It was a very good tour for me.”

Konstas believes his technique is in a good place, having worked closely with his batting coach, Tahmid Islam, since the West Indies fast bowlers worked him over. He feels his mental approach is sound, having leaned on his mentor and former Test all-rounder Shane Watson for guidance. Konstas has even worked with a breathing coach to ensure he remains calm and focused as a bowler gets ready to deliver the ball.

Clarity and confidence are all Konstas could have asked for, as he embarks on an intense period where every shot he plays is analysed and scrutinised through an Ashes lens. You wouldn’t know it from his relaxed demeanour.

“I have a lot of clarity now,” Konstas said. “[Making runs] does matter for me. Any time you spend at the crease, it’s valuable and builds a bit of confidence. I’m just trying to win games for NSW and just put good performances in for the Ashes, hopefully.”

“I’ve been very grateful to Greg Mail and Greg Shipperd to have their support. Cricket NSW is my second home, and I’m always there. For them to have full faith in me is nice at a young age. To represent NSW is a huge honour. I think we have immense depth, and hopefully, we dominate this year and win the comp. I know I’m ready for that Aussie [call-up] when the Ashes do come. I’m just trying to score runs and put my best foot forward.”

This time, when Konstas walks out to bat at the WACA, there will be a live stream. A sea of gold shirts is also expected in the stands. Not necessarily for Western Australia—though some might be—but because the Wallabies play the All Blacks next door at Optus Stadium later that afternoon in a Bledisloe Cup fixture. Rugby Australia boss Phil Waugh, a handy junior cricketer in his day, is expected to drop in for a look. Thousands more will be watching online.

But Konstas doesn’t want to get ahead of himself. He knows the real hard work lies ahead.
https://www.smh.com.au/sport/cricket/sam-konstas-hit-a-century-nobody-could-watch-but-everyone-is-talking-about-it-20250930-p5myv8.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feed

crime, international relations, military, technology, terrorism

US National Guard soldier charged for attempting to send 3D-printed gun parts to al-Qaeda

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US National Guard Soldier Charged for Attempting to Send 3D-Printed Gun Parts to al-Qaeda

Andrew Scott Hastings, 25, a US National Guard soldier, has been charged with attempting to send 3D-printed gun parts to an agent posing as an al-Qaeda contact, according to an announcement from the Justice Department.

Hastings allegedly shipped the 3D-printed components as part of a covert operation. The case highlights the emerging concerns over the use of advanced manufacturing technologies in illicit arms distribution.

A 3D printer creating a pistol; illustrative. (Photo credit: mendlerdaniel/Shutterstock)

By JAMES GENN

https://www.jpost.com/international/islamic-terrorism/article-869306

environment, local news, weather

Mumbai Weather Update: City Wakes Up To Sunny Skies, No Rain Alert Issued For Today

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Mumbai Awakens to Clear Skies After Days of Relentless Showers

Mumbai woke up to cloudy skies in the early hours of Friday. However, the clouds soon disappeared, leaving behind clear skies and a sunny atmosphere. After days of relentless showers that battered the Konkan belt throughout September, residents finally experienced stable weather conditions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued no alerts for any district in the region today, bringing much-needed respite for citizens.

Weather Forecast for Mumbai & MMR

In Mumbai, conditions remained dry through the morning, with temperatures expected to hover between 26°C and 31°C. While the absence of rainfall provided relief from waterlogging and traffic snarls, the combination of heat and high humidity made the day feel warmer than the actual temperature.

Neighbouring Thane and Navi Mumbai also reported a drop in rainfall intensity. Throughout September, residents in these cities struggled with disrupted daily routines due to frequent heavy showers and water accumulation in low-lying areas.

On Friday, however, the skies were only partly cloudy, accompanied by mild breezes. The weather in these cities is comparatively pleasant, with temperatures forecast between 27°C and 30°C. With no threat of heavy rainfall, citizens can step out without fear of disruption.

Conditions in Palghar District

In Palghar district, which bore the brunt of heavy monsoon showers last month, the situation has also eased. Rural areas continued to see intermittent drizzle under cloudy conditions, but urban regions mainly dealt with humid weather and rising heat.

Maximum temperatures may touch 30°C, while the minimum is expected at 25°C.

Weather Along the Konkan Coast

Further down the Konkan coast, districts like Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg have witnessed a break from intense rain. After widespread flooding in September, the climate turned calmer this week.

Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg recorded light winds that brought relief, while in Raigad, partly clear skies and a cool breeze along the coastline created more comfortable conditions for residents.

Temperatures in these districts are expected to range between 26°C and 30°C.

For details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai and surrounding regions, visit: https://budgetproperties.in/

https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-weather-update-city-wakes-up-to-sunny-skies-no-rain-alert-issued-for-today

celebrity, crime, justice, law, rehabilitation

On eve of sentencing, Combs tells judge he has been ‘reborn,’ asks for mercy

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**Sean “Diddy” Combs Declares Himself a ‘New Man’ Ahead of Sentencing in Prostitution Case**

*NEW YORK (AP)* — On the eve of his sentencing, Sean “Diddy” Combs wrote a heartfelt letter to a federal judge Thursday, proclaiming himself to be a new man after confronting the depths to which he had fallen.

Combs, 55, told Judge Arun Subramanian that with his mind now clear of drugs and alcohol after spending a year in jail, he can clearly see how “rotten” he had become before his arrest in September 2024. The case led to his conviction on two prostitution-related counts, with his sentencing hearing set to begin Friday morning.

“Over the past year, there have been so many times that I wanted to give up. There have been some days I thought I would be better off dead,” Combs wrote. “The old me died in jail and a new version of me was reborn. Prison will change you or kill you. I choose to live.”

A jury in July acquitted Combs of sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy charges, but he still faces the possibility of years behind bars. His lawyers argue that the year he has already spent in jail constitutes sufficient punishment, while prosecutors are seeking at least an 11-year prison sentence.

In his letter, Combs took responsibility for his actions, writing, “I have no one to blame for my current reality and situation but myself. In my life, I have made many mistakes, but I am no longer running from them.”

He continued, “I am so sorry for the hurt that I caused, but I understand that the mere words ‘I’m sorry’ will never be good enough, as these words alone cannot erase the pain from the past.”

**Apology for Abuse of Former Girlfriend**

Combs also addressed a violent incident involving his then-girlfriend, Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, from 2016. The attack, during which Combs hit, kicked, and dragged Ventura at a Los Angeles hotel, was captured on security camera footage.

“The scene and images of me assaulting Cassie play over and over in my head daily,” Combs wrote. “I literally lost my mind. I was dead wrong for putting my hands on the woman that I loved. I’m sorry for that and always will be.”

Footage of the assault was shown repeatedly during his two-month trial. Several women testified that Combs had beaten, threatened, blackmailed, or sexually assaulted them.

In a letter to the judge ahead of sentencing, Ventura dismissed Combs’ claims of remorse.

“I know that who he was to me—the manipulator, the aggressor, the abuser, the trafficker—is who he is as a human,” she wrote. “He has no interest in changing or becoming better. He will always be the same cruel, power-hungry, manipulative man that he is.”

Ventura noted that Combs had repeatedly denied the assault allegations until the security footage surfaced. She urged the judge to impose a sentence reflecting the strength it took for victims to come forward.

“I hope that your decision considers the many lives that Sean Combs has upended with his abuse and control,” Ventura wrote.

**Acknowledgment of Other Victims**

Combs also apologized to a woman who testified under the pseudonym “Jane.” After hearing her testimony, he said, “I realized that I hurt her.”

Jane testified that Combs had chased her around her home, put her in a chokehold, punched her in the head, kicked her while she was curled up on the ground, dragged her by her hair, and pressured her into having sex with a male sex worker.

“I lost my way. I got lost in my journey. Lost in the drugs and the excess,” Combs wrote. “My downfall was rooted in my selfishness.”

**Seeking Mercy and a Second Chance**

During his time in jail, Combs said he has been reading, writing, attending therapy, working out, and even teaching a six-week course to fellow inmates called *Free Game with Diddy*. The course imparts his business wisdom alongside lessons learned from his mistakes and failures.

He vowed never to commit another crime, telling the judge that he has undergone a spiritual reset.

Rather than making an example of him with a lengthy sentence, Combs implored Judge Subramanian to “make me an example of what a person can do if afforded a second chance.”

“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.

—

*Copyright 2024 Associated Press*
https://wsvn.com/entertainment/on-eve-of-sentencing-combs-tells-judge-he-has-been-reborn-asks-for-mercy/

baseball, entertainment, privacy, sports, technology

Brilliant start by rookie pitcher propels Yankees into AL Division Series

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**Notice of Your Privacy Rights in Oregon**

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If you wish to proceed to the site under these conditions, please note that doing so will effectively opt you out of the sale of your personal data. [Click here to continue.]

However, by opting out, you will not be able to experience the full features of TribLIVE.com that rely on third-party networks which may require your personal data.

You can bookmark this page to manage your preferences at any time in the future.
https://triblive.com/sports/brilliant-start-by-rookie-pitcher-propels-yankees-into-al-division-series/

general

A CivicSpace Conversation on Rural-Urban Powerbuilding

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CivicSpace, a New America Chicago initiative, presents a virtual roundtable focused on finding common ground and powerbuilding across rural and urban spaces. This discussion will explore how rural and urban communities can better understand one another and work together to address shared civic challenges.

The roundtable will feature a moderated dialogue followed by an opportunity for questions from the audience.

While rural and urban communities are often viewed as culturally and politically opposed, many face parallel struggles such as underinvestment in public infrastructure, unequal access to public services, weakened democratic institutions, and exclusion from policy processes. Yet, there are few spaces where rural and urban leaders can come together to explore common ground, exchange experiences, and uncover shared priorities.

**Speakers:**
– Daniel Ash, Executive Director of the Field Foundation
– Loka Ashwood, Sociologist and MacArthur Fellow
– Catherine Coleman Flowers, Founder of the Center for Rural Enterprise and Environmental Justice (CREEJ) and MacArthur Fellow

Join us for an insightful conversation aimed at bridging divides and fostering collaboration between rural and urban communities.
https://www.newamerica.org/chicago/events/a-civicspace-conversation-on-rural-urban-powerbuilding/

crime, drug_abuse, international, military, politics

Trump says U.S. in ‘armed conflict’ with drug cartels after ordering strikes in the Caribbean

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President Donald Trump has declared drug cartels to be unlawful combatants and stated that the United States is now in an “armed conflict” with them. This revelation comes from a Trump administration memo obtained by The Associated Press on Thursday, October 3, 2025, following recent U.S. strikes on boats in the Caribbean.

The memo represents an extraordinary assertion of presidential war powers, with Mr. Trump effectively declaring that drug trafficking into the United States amounts to an armed conflict requiring the use of military force. This is a new rationale for both past and future actions.

> “The President determined that the United States is in a non-international armed conflict with these designated terrorist organizations,” the memo states. Mr. Trump directed the Pentagon to “conduct operations against them pursuant to the law of armed conflict.”

The memo continues, saying, “The United States has now reached a critical point where we must use force in self-defense and defense of others against the ongoing attacks by these designated terrorist organizations.”

This development signals a potential shift not only in the administration’s willingness to exceed traditional presidential authority to wage war but also in Mr. Trump’s stated America First agenda, which typically favors non-intervention overseas. It raises serious questions about the extent to which the White House intends to use its war powers, and whether Congress will assert its authority to approve or reject such military actions.

### Declaration Follows Strikes on Boats in the Caribbean

Last month, the U.S. military carried out three deadly strikes against boats in the Caribbean accused of ferrying drugs. At least two of these operations were conducted against vessels originating from Venezuela. These strikes followed a buildup of U.S. maritime forces in the Caribbean not seen in recent history.

Though the memo did not include a timestamp, it references a September 15 U.S. strike that resulted in the destruction of the vessel, confiscation of illicit narcotics, and the deaths of approximately three unlawful combatants.

White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly stated, “As we have said many times, the President acted in line with the law of armed conflict to protect our country from those trying to bring deadly poison to our shores. He is delivering on his promise to take on the cartels and eliminate these national security threats from murdering more Americans.”

The Pentagon referred questions to the White House. Pentagon officials briefed senators on the strikes on Wednesday, according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke under conditions of anonymity.

### Legal and Congressional Concerns

During the classified briefing at the Capitol, several senators perceived the Trump administration’s outlined legal framework as a new and controversial approach—raising significant questions about Congress’s role in authorizing such military actions.

The memo sets out the administration’s justification for past military strikes against boats in the Caribbean—actions that have raised concerns among lawmakers about their legality—and potentially legitimizes future operations.

### Details on Targeted Cartels Remain Sparse

President Trump has designated several Latin American drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. The administration previously justified military action as a necessary escalation to stem the flow of drugs into the United States.

However, Pentagon officials could not provide a list of the designated terrorist organizations involved in the conflict. This lack of transparency frustrated some lawmakers who were briefed on the matter.

While allied nations have made significant efforts to combat these groups, the memo states that the cartels have become transnational and conduct ongoing attacks throughout the Western Hemisphere as organized entities. It refers to cartel members as unlawful combatants.

### Bipartisan Push for Congressional Authorization

As the Republican administration targets vessels in the Caribbean, lawmakers from both major political parties have expressed objections. They have pressed Mr. Trump to seek war powers authorization from Congress for such military operations.

The first military strike, carried out on September 2 against what the Trump administration described as a drug-carrying speedboat, resulted in 11 deaths. Mr. Trump claimed the vessel was operated by the Tren de Aragua gang, which the U.S. designated as a foreign terrorist organization earlier this year.

Several senators and human rights groups have questioned the legality of these actions, calling them a potential overreach of executive authority—particularly because the military was used for law enforcement purposes.

The Trump administration has yet to explain how the military evaluated the boats’ cargo or determined the passengers’ alleged gang affiliations before conducting the strikes.

### Senator Jack Reed Reacts

Senator Jack Reed of Rhode Island, the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, commented on the situation:

> “The drug cartels are despicable and must be dealt with by law enforcement. The Trump Administration has offered no credible legal justification, evidence, or intelligence for these strikes.”

A former Army officer who served in the 82nd Airborne Division, Reed’s criticism underscores the ongoing controversy surrounding the administration’s approach to combating drug cartels.

—

The unfolding situation highlights the complex balance between national security, executive authority, and legislative oversight as the U.S. grapples with transnational drug trafficking and its consequences.
https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/trump-says-us-in-armed-conflict-with-drug-cartels-after-ordering-strikes-in-the-caribbean/article70119237.ece

demographics, economy, finance, india, investment

10% households invest in markets: Survey

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**Less than 10% of Indian Households Invest in Securities Market, Sebi Survey Reveals**

*MUMBAI:* According to a recent survey conducted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), less than one out of every ten households in India—only 9.5%—invest in securities market-related financial products such as stocks and mutual funds.

This low investment penetration persists despite the fact that 63% of the country’s total 33.7 crore households are aware of at least one such product.

**State-wise Investment Penetration**

The survey highlights significant variation across states. Delhi leads with nearly 21% of households investing in securities market products, followed by Maharashtra at 17%. On the other end of the spectrum, Uttarakhand records the lowest penetration with just 4.5% of stock-related investing households.

**Mutual Funds vs. Stocks**

At the all-India level, mutual funds have a higher penetration rate compared to stocks. About 6.7% of households invest in mutual funds, while 5.3% hold stocks. Other financial products such as Futures & Options (F&O), REITs/InvITs, and corporate bonds have less than 1% penetration among households.

**Risk Preferences**

The survey also sheds light on investors’ risk appetite. Nearly 80% of households prefer capital preservation over higher returns. This cautious approach extends to younger generations as well, with 79% of Gen-Z households displaying risk-averse behavior.

**About the Survey**

This nationwide survey was commissioned by Sebi in collaboration with the Association of Mutual Funds in India (Amfi), Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), National Stock Exchange (NSE), and other market infrastructure institutions.

—

*Follow Us On Social Media for More Updates*
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/10-households-invest-in-markets-survey/articleshow/124280549.cms

celebrity, entertainment, media, royalty

EXCLUSIVE: Revealed — The A-List Podcast Snub That Left Meghan Markle ‘Reeling With Embarrassment’

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**Meghan Markle Left Embarrassed After Mariah Carey Erases Her From Memory in UK Radio Interview**

*October 2, 2025, Updated 7:36 p.m. ET*

Meghan Markle has reportedly been left embarrassed after Mariah Carey appeared to erase her from memory when asked about royal connections during a UK radio interview, RadarOnline.com can reveal.

The Duchess of Sussex, 44, launched her popular podcast *Archetypes* in 2022, with Carey, 56, appearing as one of her headline guests. That episode made headlines at the time for an awkward exchange when the singer called Meghan a “diva,” before hastily clarifying she meant it as a compliment about her style and presence.

### The Awkward ‘Diva’ Moment Resurfaces

But three years on, that moment has resurfaced after Carey was asked on Hits Radio to reflect on royal encounters ahead of a planned performance at Sandringham House. Instead of mentioning Markle, Carey chose to talk warmly about meeting Sarah Ferguson, describing her as “cool.”

For those close to the Sussexes, the “diva” incident combined with Carey’s refusal to collaborate again with Markle in her new Netflix content has “stung.”

One source close to Markle said, “Meghan saw the podcast as a way to connect with influential women she respected. Being so openly passed over now feels deeply humiliating—as though the ‘diva’ controversy is still casting a shadow over her.”

### Meghan’s Sensitivity to the Comment

The original conversation between the pair on *Archetypes* centered on the word “diva” and its double meaning in both pop culture and everyday life. Carey had told Markle she sometimes gave off “diva moments,” pointing to her poise, glamorous wardrobe, and polished presentation.

Markle appeared unsettled by the remark, asking in response, “What kind of diva moments do I give you?” Although Carey clarified her comment referred to image rather than personality, Markle later admitted during the episode that she found the exchange uncomfortable.

The resurfacing of that tension has, according to insiders, left Markle particularly sensitive.

Another industry insider commented, “Mariah was among the most high-profile guests Meghan had secured, so choosing to spotlight Sarah Ferguson instead—without even acknowledging Meghan—was telling. In celebrity circles, such omissions don’t go unnoticed, and it’s embarrassed Meghan.”

### No Chance of a Reunion

Despite this, Markle would still like Mariah to get involved in her new projects, knowing it would make headlines. However, Mariah’s representatives have made it clear there is no chance of that happening.

A source explained, “Mariah just isn’t a fan of Meghan and her ultra-sensitivity. Mariah plays up her diva image in a fun way, but with Meghan it just comes across as irritating.”

This snub comes at a time when Markle and Prince Harry, 41, are working hard to keep their media projects afloat amid critical reviews. Season two of Markle’s Netflix lifestyle series *With Love, Meghan* has recently launched, while Harry’s own polo documentary faced widespread negative feedback earlier this year.

### Renewed Insecurities for the Duchess

A Hollywood source familiar with Markle’s team shared, “She has invested a lot of effort in aligning herself with the celebrity sisterhood, so being left out in this way is painful. Meghan regards her podcast as one of her proudest achievements—and for one of its most prominent guests to overlook it feels like a real setback.”

Friends further suggested that Mariah’s omission of Markle during her radio chat revived insecurities about how the Duchess is perceived in star circles compared to her royal status.

One confidante explained, “Meghan’s biggest fear is being disregarded—whether by the Palace or by Hollywood. To her, this was yet another sign that she’s still struggling to secure her place.”

—

*For more updates on Meghan Markle, Mariah Carey, and royal news, stay tuned.*
https://radaronline.com/p/meghan-markle-podcast-snub-embarrassment-a-list-guest-mariah-carey/

entertainment, legal, personal

‘I Am Deeply Sorry’: Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Begs Judge for ‘Another Chance’ and Claims He Will ‘Never Commit a Crime Again’ in Rapper’s Final Plea Before Sentencing

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**Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Makes Final Plea for Mercy Ahead of Sentencing**

*Published October 2, 2025, 6:40 p.m. ET*

Sean “Diddy” Combs is making one last plea to be a free man, begging Judge Arun Subramanian for mercy just hours before his sentence is handed down, RadarOnline.com can reveal.

While the prosecution is pushing for the disgraced rapper to serve 11 years behind bars, Combs faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

### Combs Apologizes for 2016 Attack on Cassie Ventura

In a new letter dated Thursday, October 2, and obtained by RadarOnline.com, the music mogul opens with a heartfelt apology for his past actions.

He writes, “I apologize for my actions, and for all of the hurt and pain that I have caused others by my conduct. I take full responsibility and accountability for my past wrongs.

“This has been the hardest 2 years of my life, and I have no one to blame for my current reality and situation but myself.”

Combs then references his 2016 assault on ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura at the InterContinental Hotel in Century City, Los Angeles—a shocking incident captured on camera.

“The scene and images of me assaulting Cassie play over and over in my head daily,” he says. “I literally lost my mind. I was dead wrong for putting my hands on the woman that I loved. I’m sorry for that and always will be. My domestic violence will always be a heavy burden that I will have to forever carry.”

### Life Behind Bars: Combs Reflects on His Time in Jail

The “I’ll Be Missing You” hitmaker then reveals the harsh reality of his incarceration at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York, where he claims he “has not breathed fresh air in nearly 13 months.”

“Jail is designed to break you mentally, physically, and spiritually. Over the past year, there have been so many times that I wanted to give up. There have been some days I thought I would be better off dead. The old me died in jail, and a new version of me was reborn. Prison will change you or kill you – I choose to live,” Combs writes.

He adds that he has made positive changes during his time behind bars, stating he is now “sober for the first time in 25 years,” and spends his days “reading books, writing, working out, or in therapy obtaining the tools and knowledge to deal with my past drug abuse and anger issues.”

“One of the most beautiful things I have experienced is being asked by my fellow inmates to teach and mentor them,” he shares.

### The Moments He Missed: A Father’s Heartache

Combs also speaks about his seven children, pleading, “I ask you for mercy today, not only for my sake, but for the sake of my children… As I write you this letter, I am scared to death. Scared to spend another second away from my mother and my children. I no longer care about the money or the fame. There is nothing more important to me than my family.”

He goes on to chronicle the milestones he’s missed while locked up: “I have missed my three daughters’ proms and graduations. I have missed taking one of my daughters to college. I have lost the freedom to teach my two-year-old how to speak, dance, play, or be there to console her when she falls down or has a nightmare.”

### A Plea for a Second Chance

In closing, Combs makes one final appeal to the court.

“I would ask Your Honor to make me an example of what a person can do if afforded a second chance. 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 states.

“Today, I humbly ask you for another chance – another chance to be a better father, another chance to be a better son, another chance to be a better leader in my community, and another chance to live a better life.

“I am writing this not to gain any sympathy or pity. This experience is simply the truth of my existence and has changed my life forever, and I will never commit a crime again…”

### What’s Next for Combs?

Sean Combs faces up to 20 years in prison after being found guilty of two felony counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. However, he was found not guilty of racketeering and both charges of sex trafficking—the more serious allegations.

The Bad Boy Records founder’s legal team has condemned the prosecution’s recommended 11-year sentence as “indecent, and deeply troubling,” calling it “a draconian sentence.”

As the judge prepares to make a ruling, all eyes are on Combs and whether his final plea will sway the court toward leniency.
https://radaronline.com/p/sean-diddy-combs-begs-judge-for-another-chance-letter-final-plea-sentencing/