Russell Brand sentenced to 10 years and six months for rape and sexual assault

British comedian Russell Brand was sentenced on Monday to 10 years and six months in prison after a jury convicted him of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault committed between 2005 and 2009. The verdict followed a four-week trial at Southwark Crown Court.

Judge Joel Bennathan said Brand had risen to fame about two decades ago and described him as "clever, funny and charismatic" but also a "sexual predator."

"Mr. Brand abused the influence and power that came with his fame. He used it to facilitate access to women without which the offending could not have taken place," prosecutor Riel Karmy-Jones said.

Brand was acquitted of two additional rape charges and one count of attempted indecent assault, but police continue to investigate allegations from two other women. While his wife Laura Gallacher was present in the public gallery, Brand told her, "we'll be OK," before being taken into custody.

One victim, who testified anonymously, said the assault left her feeling like "damaged goods" and expressed shock at the public celebration of Brand's behavior. Another survivor, a former fan, said she delayed reporting the abuse because she feared she would not be believed, citing the power imbalance created by Brand's fame and wealth.

Under the sentencing guidelines, Brand is expected to serve two-thirds of the term in prison.