A split verdict that saw the fallen rapper and mogul escape being convicted of the more serious charges left observers stumped and ponderous — and looking for answers.

Citing the federal sentencing guidelines, prosecutors in the trial argued Combs should be sentenced to 51 to 63 months in prison -- around four to five years. Defense attorneys argued the guidelines point toward a sentence of 21 to 27 months -- around two years.

Sean “Diddy” Combs was denied bail on Friday after the jury in his federal sex trafficking trial returned its verdict, convicting him on two lesser charges of transportation to engage in prostitution but clearing the hip-hop mogul of the most serious charges.