Russell Brand Found Guilty of Rape and Sexual Assault

​Following a high-profile, four-week trial at London’s Southwark Crown Court, British comedian and actor Russell Brand has been convicted of multiple sexual offences stemming from a series of historical allegations.

​The jury of eight men and four women, following more than eight hours of deliberations over two days, found the 51-year-old entertainer guilty on four counts: one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault. The charges related to complaints brought forward by four women concerning incidents that took place between 2004 and 2009.

​However, the panel cleared Brand of two additional rape charges and one count of attempted indecent assault.

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​As the verdict was read, Brand displayed no visible reaction. His wife, Laura Brand, who had testified as a character witness in his defense during the proceedings, was seen departing the courtroom. Following the discharge of the jury, Judge Mr Justice Joel Bennathan warned that Brand should expect a “significant” custodial sentence. Having previously been free on bail, Brand was immediately remanded into custody and is scheduled to return to court on Monday for formal sentencing.

​Prosecutors portrayed Brand as a predatory figure who leveraged his fame and celebrity status to execute sexual crimes. During the trial, Brand took the stand to deny all allegations, testifying that while he maintained a promiscuous lifestyle and an obsession with sex during his youth, he never forced anyone to engage in non-consensual acts.

​Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Police confirmed that legal scrutiny surrounding the entertainer is far from over. Brand remains under active investigation regarding separate allegations brought forward by two other women. Files concerning those separate claims have already been handed over to the Crown Prosecution Service, with inquiries continuing.