Russell Brand faces abusive chants from inmates at HMP Wandsworth ahead of sentencing
The former comedian, awaiting sentencing for rape and sexual assault convictions, has been reportedly taunted by inmates while housed in the prison's Care and Separation Unit.
Russell Brand, 51, is being held in the Care and Separation Unit of HMP Wandsworth as he awaits a sentencing hearing on November 8 for one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault. According to a source cited by the Daily Mail, inmates have repeatedly chanted derogatory slogans directed at him.
The unit, known among staff as "The Block" or "The Seg," is located in the lower levels of the Victorian-era prison. Brand has been nicknamed "Russell from the Block" by other prisoners. Prison officials have placed him in this area rather than the Vulnerable Prisoners wing, which typically houses convicted sex offenders, citing his high public profile.
The prison, a Category B facility that also includes a Category C resettlement wing, holds more than 1,500 inmates. An inspection report released in April-May 2024 highlighted poor living conditions, severe overcrowding with 80% of cells designed for single occupancy housing multiple prisoners, and deficiencies in sanitation, heating and hot-water supply.
Brand remains under active Metropolitan Police investigation concerning an allegation involving a 16-year-old girl, though no charges related to child sexual offences have been filed.
"The prison environment is challenging, and the recent inspection identified significant issues that require urgent action," the report stated.
Brand is scheduled to appear before a judge on Monday, November 8, to determine whether a custodial sentence will be imposed and, if so, its length.