Katherine Ryan feels 'grief and relief' over Brand guilty verdict

Russell Brand faces new rape allegations, police reveal

The disgraced comedian is currently under investigation for two fresh rape complaints, according to the Metropolitan Police. Brand, 51, has already been found guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault by a jury at Southwark Crown Court, following a three-week trial. He was convicted of two other counts of rape and one count of attempted indecent assault, but was found not guilty of two other rape charges and one attempted indecent assault charge.

Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, who led the investigation, hopes other women will find the courage to come forward following the guilty verdicts. Brand had initially been quiet in police interviews but became more bold as questioning continued, police say. The investigation into these allegations began in September 2023 after allegations first emerged in the media.

Over 340 witness statements were taken, including from Brand's former employers, colleagues, and associates, as the police sought to build a case despite the lack of recent evidence. Brand's former personal assistant testified about his "insane sexual appetite," while a statement from his parents was also heard in court. Despite the intense media scrutiny and the non-recent nature of the allegations, the police persevered, taking more than two minutes to walk into court and pleading not guilty. Brand's wife Laura was present at his court appearance.