London jury finds comedian Russell Brand guilty of rape and three sexual assaults
British comedian Russell Brand has been found guilty by a London jury of one count of rape and three sexual assaults involving four women between 2005 and 2009. The offences took place at several locations, including a radio station, a DVD recording set and Brand’s home. He had denied all the charges, maintaining that although he had been promiscuous, his sexual relationships were consensual.
Brand, 51, was also cleared of two rape charges and one count of attempted indecent assault. He showed no emotion as the unanimous guilty verdicts were delivered at Southwark Crown Court, where his wife, Laura, was sitting in the public gallery. Judge Joel Bennathan said Brand faces a significant custodial term and remanded him in custody ahead of sentencing on Monday. Rape carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment in the UK.
The Metropolitan Police praised the four women for their courage in reporting the allegations. Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy said Brand had used his fame and influence to exploit women, while senior prosecutor David Roberts described his conduct as predatory and manipulative. Brand also faces separate allegations involving two other women, including a 16-year-old schoolgirl, but those claims were not part of this trial.
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