Russell Brand convicted of rape and sexual assault in London court
British comedian Russell Brand was found guilty of one count of rape and three sexual assaults, with sentencing scheduled for Monday.
A London jury convicted comedian Russell Brand of raping a woman and sexually assaulting three others in a trial at Southwark Crown Court. The verdict covers incidents that occurred between 2004 and 2009, while Brand was acquitted of two additional rape charges and an attempted indecent assault.
Senior Crown prosecutor David Roberts said the evidence showed Brand used his fame to create situations for non-consensual sexual activity.
"The evidence showed Brand to be a calculated sexual predator, using his growing fame and power to create situations in which he could pursue women sexually, regardless of what they wanted,"
Brand denied the allegations, claiming the encounters were consensual or misremembered, and acknowledged past “reckless philandering.” He was refused bail and will be sentenced on Monday, facing a lengthy prison term.
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy said the conviction demonstrates that no one is above the law.
"I hope this conviction sends a clear message that no one is above the law, no matter how famous or powerful they may be,"
The case follows other high-profile British celebrity convictions for sexual offences and has prompted police to encourage any additional victims to come forward. Detective Inspector Laura Nelson said investigators expect more reports and will treat them seriously.
"I think there are other victims out there and if they want to report that to us, then we'll of course take it seriously,"