The mixed result capped a sordid legal odyssey that shattered Combs' affable "Puff Daddy" image and derailed his career as a Grammy-winning artist and music executive, fashion entrepreneur, brand ambassador and reality TV star.
Defense lawyer Nicole Westmoreland cited Combs' decision to avail himself of his right to a trial.
"He actually battled for his freedom, for his innocence, and he did it. And, you know, a lot of times, people are too afraid to do it," she observed. "Today is a major win to show what the system can do."
Defense attorney Marc Agnifilo said outside the courthouse that the jury "got the situation right — or certainly right enough."
"Today is a victory of all victories," he said.
As Combs left the courtroom for a final time, he stood in front of his family, telling them: "I'll see you when I get out" and "We're going to get through this." He also told them, "Be strong, I love you."
He looked toward his mother and said, "Mama. I love you. Stay strong."
As soon as Combs was denied bail, he had snapped his head toward his lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, and then wrote him several notes as he spoke, finally raising his hand and waving it to get the judge's attention. But he did not speak after consulting with Agnifilo.
Defense lawyers had pressed Judge Arun Subramanian to reconsider the ruling denying Combs release, but Subramanian stood firm.
Marc Agnifilo, Combs' lawyer, argued: "He's not going to flee. He's been given his life back."