Russell Brand guilty of rape, three sexual assaults, says UK court

British comedian Russell Brand was convicted by a London jury on Thursday of one rape and three sexual assaults, involving four women. The verdicts were delivered after the comedian, who pleaded not guilty to all charges, closed his eyes but showed no emotion. Brand was cleared of two rape charges and one count of attempted indecent assault. Judge Joel Bennathan cautioned the 51-year-old actor-turned-conservative online guru that he faces a significant custodial sentence.

The Metropolitan Police credited the four women for their extraordinary courage, resilience, and determination in coming forward with their allegations. Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy stated that Brand exploited his influence, status, and fame to sexually offend against women, and as his profile grew, so did his sense of entitlement.

Brand was convicted of four sexual offences, one rape and three sexual assaults, which occurred between 2005 and 2009 in various locations, including a radio station, the set of a DVD recording, and his home address. During the trial, the prosecution described Brand as a "ruthless, calculated, and manipulative sexual predator."