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‘How many more?’ Police probing two claims against Russell Brand including teen, 16, urge other victims to come forward
Russell Brand was convicted at Southwark Crown Court of rape and three sexual assaults, and a senior Metropolitan Police officer has urged anyone else who says he harmed them to come forward. The investigation is continuing after two further rape allegations, including one involving a 16-year-old, were raised during his hearing; these remain allegations and have not resulted in convictions.
The offences behind the convictions took place between 2004 and 2009 and involved women working in media or attending one of Brand’s shows. The jury also found him not guilty on two other charges, including a rape allegation relating to 1999. Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy said specially trained officers would listen to further reports with dignity and respect, while the judge said Brand faces a significant custodial term.
In short
- Brand was convicted of rape and three sexual assaults.
- Police say the investigation is continuing.
- Two further rape allegations were raised in court.
Explained simply
Russell Brand is a British comedian and broadcaster who became widely known through television, radio and live shows. The case concerns accusations of sexual offences made by women who worked in media or attended one of his performances.
A jury at Southwark Crown Court convicted Brand of rape and three sexual assaults for offences between 2004 and 2009. It found him not guilty of two other charges, including one relating to an alleged rape in 1999. The verdicts distinguish the offences proved in court from other claims, which remain allegations.
The case matters because it involves criminal convictions as well as continuing police inquiries into other reports. Anyone considering reporting an offence can contact the police, who say specially trained officers are available to listen.