Russell Brand found guilty of rape and sexual assault
Comedian convicted of one rape and three sexual assaults between 2004 and 2009 at Southwark Crown Court.
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Comedian Russell Brand has been found guilty of raping one woman and sexually assaulting three others between 2004 and 2009. A jury at Southwark Crown Court delivered the unanimous guilty verdicts on Thursday. Mr Justice Bennathan ordered Brand, aged 51, to begin his prison sentence immediately after the verdicts were announced. He was cleared of two further charges of rape and one allegation of attempted indecent assault.
Details of the convictions
Russell Brand convicted, bail denied and sentencing set for Monday
Metropolitan Police says investigations into further rape allegations against the comedian remain active
The convictions relate to incidents that took place during Brand's rise to fame as a comedian, TV and radio host, and Hollywood actor. The jury heard evidence that Brand used his celebrity status to exploit women. He was convicted of raping a 21-year-old fan in 2009 after meeting her following a show at the Hammersmith Apollo. The woman stated the encounter at Brand's Hampstead home turned violent. Brand was also found guilty of sexually assaulting a woman at a Soho bar in 2004, kissing and groping another woman at Capital Radio studios in 2005, and placing his head into the groin of a female Channel 4 worker in 2009 after she was made to give him a massage. Brand had denied all charges, with his defence suggesting the case was a media conspiracy and questioning why victims did not scream or fight back. His barrister, Ian Winter KC, has since self-referred to the Bar Standards Board following an incident at court.
Further investigations and statements
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that Brand is under investigation for two additional rape allegations. Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley indicated that more victims may come forward. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy stated that more robust processes are needed to protect women within media organisations, adding that such events could still happen today. Detective Sergeant Andy Furphy of the Metropolitan Police praised the courage of the women who came forward, stating that their bravery was essential to the outcome. He added that the conviction sends a message that no one is above the law, regardless of fame or power.
Russell Brand suspected of attacking at least 10 more women as police launch new rape probes
Met Police say two further rape allegations are being examined and warn additional victims may still come forward
What happens next
Sentencing for Russell Brand is scheduled for Monday, when the judge is expected to hear victim impact statements and legal submissions from both the prosecution and defence. Brand was remanded into custody immediately after the guilty verdicts were delivered.
Questions this report answers
+What was Russell Brand found guilty of?
Russell Brand was found guilty by a jury at Southwark Crown Court of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault. These offences occurred between 2004 and 2009 against four women.
+When will Russell Brand be sentenced?
Russell Brand is scheduled to be sentenced on Monday. The judge will hear victim impact statements and legal submissions from both the prosecution and defence before passing sentence.
+Are there any other investigations into Russell Brand?
Yes, the Metropolitan Police have confirmed that Russell Brand is currently under investigation for two additional rape allegations. The Commissioner indicated that more victims may come forward.
+What was the outcome of the trial for Russell Brand?
Following the guilty verdicts for rape and sexual assault, Russell Brand was ordered by Mr Justice Bennathan to begin his prison sentence immediately. He was taken into custody after the trial concluded.
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