Russell Brand found guilty of rape and sexual assault, faces significant prison sentence

Guilty on four counts

Brand was convicted of rape and three sexual assaults in his London criminal trial on Wednesday. The BBC reported that jurors deliberated for three days before reaching their decision.

The jury found him not guilty of two other rape charges and a charge of attempted indecent assault. The verdict therefore included both convictions and acquittals.

Brand remanded in custody

Following the verdict, Brand was remanded in custody. He is 51 and was described as a British comedian in the report. The ruling came after the jury’s three-day deliberation. No further details about the custody arrangements were provided.

Judge signals prison term

Judge Justice Bennathan told Brand that a significant custodial term would follow the convictions. He said the consequence of the rape conviction and other offenses was inevitably a substantial prison sentence. The judge also reportedly told Brand, “Sit down Mr Brand,” shortly after the verdict. He described the case as “very well planned.”