Russell Brand found guilty of rape and sexual assault
The comedian was facing seven charges including three counts of rape
Last updated 17 hours ago
The comedian Russell Brand has been found guilty of rape and sexual assault by a jury at Southwark Crown Court.
The 51-year-old actor was facing seven charges including three counts of rape alleged to have taken place between 1999 and 2009.
He was found guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault.
Brand was remanded into custody and will be sentenced on Monday.
What happened in Russell Brand's trial?
During the trial, Southwark Crown Court heard allegations against Russell Brand relating to events between 1999 and 2009, involving women he met through work, comedy performances and other encounters.
The accusations focussed on a hotel room, his London home, workplaces and toilets at MTV and a Soho bar.
Brand denied three counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault and one count of attempted indecent assault.
Prosecutors argued he had exploited women for sexual gratification and sought to control them, but giving evidence, Brand rejected the allegations and said consent was essential to him.
He acknowledged a past preoccupation with sex but disputed the prosecution’s account of his behaviour, his defence urged jurors to distinguish between unkind treatment and criminal conduct, and questioned the reliability of the allegations, arguing the complainants had been influenced by a Channel 4 Dispatches documentary.
After hearing the evidence and closing arguments, the jury of eight men and four women retired to consider its verdicts.
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, from the Metropolitan Police Service, said
"Today's verdict is first and foremost a testament to the extraordinary courage, resilience and determination of the women who came forward and reported what happened to them. Despite intense media and public scrutiny, they relived deeply personal and traumatic experiences and placed their trust in us. Without their bravery, this outcome would not have been possible.
"Brand used his influence, status and fame to exploit and sexually offend against women. As his profile grew, so too did his sense of entitlement. I hope this conviction sends a clear message that no one is above the law, no matter how famous or powerful they may be.
"I want to pay tribute to the team of detectives and specialist staff who worked tirelessly on this investigation. Their professionalism, determination and compassion for the victims represent the very best of the Metropolitan Police.
"Finally, I would urge anyone who may have been a victim of rape or serious sexual assault to speak to us. You will be listened to, supported and treated with dignity and respect."