Russell Brand is convicted of rape, and judge says he'll get prison term
LONDON — Russell Brand, the risque comic who bragged for years of his sexual exploits, was convicted Thursday of raping one woman and sexually assaulting three others on allegations dating back years. The British actor-comedian faces a “significant” prison term when he is sentenced Monday, Judge Joel Bennathan said. Brand had been free, but he was taken into custody after the judge rejected a…
LONDON — Actor and comedian Russell Brand was found guilty Thursday of raping one woman and sexually assaulting three others, according to prosecutors. The 51-year-old faces a "significant" prison sentence when the judge hands down the verdict on Monday. Judge Joel Bennathan denied bail for Brand, citing the risk of him fleeing due to his serious criminal history.
The judge expressed regret over the impact on his three children, but emphasized that the "hardship has been caused by serious criminal offending by their father."
Brand's lawyer, Riel Karmy-Jones, portrayed the comedian as a ruthless, manipulative "sexual predator" during the trial. Despite denying the allegations, Brand admitted to a promiscuous lifestyle in his younger years. He was convicted of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault, while being acquitted of two rape charges and one count of attempted indecency.
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