British actor and comedian Russell Brand was found guilty on Nov. 5 of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault at Southwark Crown Court in London. The convictions involved four women and offences committed between 2004 and 2009. Brand denied all charges and said the sexual encounters were consensual. The jury acquitted him of two other rape charges and one count of attempted indecent assault. The judge refused bail, saying Brand faced a significant custodial term, with sentencing scheduled for Nov. 9.
Four convictions and three acquittals
The Crown Prosecution Service said Brand was convicted of one rape count and three sexual-assault counts. The rape conviction concerned an incident in 2009. The three sexual-assault convictions related to separate incidents between 2004 and 2009. The jury found him not guilty of two additional rape charges and one attempted indecent-assault charge. The six women who brought allegations in the trial are legally entitled to lifelong anonymity, and their identities must not be published.
Prosecutors said he used fame and influence
During the four-week trial, prosecutors argued that Brand used the celebrity and influence he gained through entertainment work to approach women and commit sexual offences without their consent. Police said investigators interviewed more than 100 witnesses and reviewed extensive documents, performances and interview material. Brand denied forcing anyone to engage in sexual activity. He told the court that he had been promiscuous when younger but maintained that consent was essential. The jury reached separate verdicts on each charge after considering the evidence.
Bail refused as sentencing approaches
After the verdicts, Brand’s lawyer applied for bail so he could remain out of custody until sentencing. Judge Joel Bennathan refused the request, saying the rape conviction meant a substantial prison sentence was likely. Brand was remanded in custody. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for Nov. 9, when the court will consider the seriousness of the offences, the impact on victims, sentencing guidelines and submissions from the defence.
Police continue investigating other allegations
London’s Metropolitan Police said its investigation into Brand is continuing. Files relating to two further rape allegations have been submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service for review. Those allegations are separate from the offences decided by the jury and have not been established in court. The case has renewed discussion about power imbalances in the entertainment industry, workplace safety and the investigation of sexual offences reported years after the alleged events.