UK prosecutor calls Russell Brand ruthless predator as rape trial begins

The rape and sexual assault trial of British comedian Russell Brand has begun at Southwark Crown Court in London. Brand, 51, faces seven sexual offence charges involving six women, including allegations of indecent assault. He denies all of the alleged offences.

During the trial, prosecutor Riel Karmy-Jones told the jury that Brand was a "ruthless, calculated and manipulative" sexual predator who targeted women for sex. Karmy-Jones stated that the alleged offences occurred between 1999 and 2009 and described Brand's desire for sexual contact as "indiscriminate and voracious." The prosecution claims Brand used his charm and comic talents to get what he wanted but was also demanding and entitled.

Free Malaysia Today reports that Brand and his wife, Laura, were seen leaving the court following jury selection. The jury consists of eight men and four women.

Brief written by urgent.news from Punch Nigeria, Punch, Free Malaysia Today, The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald — 5 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.