Exclusive: Russell Brand wife influenced judge’s decision on future risk, not rape sentencing term

Wife’s evidence on future risk

In remarks at Southwark Crown Court, Bennathan said Gallacher’s evidence helped him assess whether Brand remained a danger. He concluded there was no sound evidential basis to find that Brand posed a future risk, also noting how long ago the offences took place.

The judge said that kind of risk assessment can affect whether a further report is needed before sentencing. He did not say Gallacher’s testimony changed the length of Brand’s prison term.

Why the sentence was reduced

Bennathan imposed nine years for rape and an additional 18 months for the sexual assault convictions, making the total 10 years and six months. He reduced the rape sentence by one year for several reasons, including Brand’s lack of significant previous convictions, the time elapsed and his efforts to help people with addiction. Brand must serve two-thirds of his term before becoming eligible for release under supervision. The judge described him as a “sexual predator” and criticized what he called Brand’s “staggering arrogance.”

Trial testimony and verdict

Gallacher, 39, testified for her husband’s defense on Oct. 29. She described him as a “wonderful father” and an “amazingly attentive husband,” and said their marriage was honest despite his past.

Brand was convicted of one rape and three sexual assaults involving four women between 2004 and 2009. He was acquitted of two other rape charges and one attempted indecent assault count.