Russell Brand found guilty of rape and sexual assault

A jury in London has found comedian and actor Russell Brand guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault.

The actor was charged with seven counts: three counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault, and one count of attempted indecent assault.

After the verdict, London's Metropolitan Police Service confirmed that Brand, 51, is facing further allegations of rape from two women, the BBC reported. "The suspect has previously been interviewed under caution in connection with the allegations," the force said in a statement.

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Following a four-week trial at Southwark Crown Court, the jury unanimously found Brand guilty on four of the charges. He was acquitted of two rape counts and one count of attempted indecent assault.

Brand is due to be sentenced at Southwark Crown Court on Monday, Nov. 9. The judge said he should expect a lengthy prison term.

Brand became a household name in the U.K. in the 2000s as a comedian and broadcaster. He went on to star in the movies Get Him to the Greek in 2010 and Arthur the following year.

He married singer Katy Perry in October 2010, but Brand filed for divorce in December 2011, citing irreconcilable differences. Their divorce was finalized in July 2012.

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The claims against Brand were made by six different women, and span from 1999-2009.

Brand had denied the charges and said he had never forced anyone to do something against their will.

Following the verdict, the judge told Brand he would be remanded in custody.

"You've been convicted of a number of offences including rape," Mr Justice Bennathan said. "The consequence of that is inevitably a significant custodial term. My current view is that I therefore have to remand you into custody."

In a statement, Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, from London's Metropolitan Police Service, said: "Today's verdict is first and foremost a testament to the extraordinary courage, resilience and determination of the women who came forward and reported what happened to them.

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"Despite intense media and public scrutiny, they relived deeply personal and traumatic experiences and placed their trust in us. Without their bravery, this outcome would not have been possible."

The statement added: "Brand used his influence, status and fame to exploit and sexually offend against women.

"As his profile grew, so too did his sense of entitlement. I hope this conviction sends a clear message that no one is above the law, no matter how famous or powerful they may be."

More to follow…

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