British actor and comedian Russell Brand has been found guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault following a lengthy criminal trial in London.
The 51-year-old was found guilty following a multi-week trial at Southwark Crown Court in London.
In the court, Brand was sitting when the verdicts were being delivered, with two security officers were seen in the dock with him, while his wife Laura was in the public gallery watching on.
The rape charge relates to an incident in 2009, where he told the judge that obviously a custodial sentence of some length would result.
The allegations span between 1999 and 2009, with six women having come forward to make various claims against Brand. Each woman is entitled to lifelong anonymity, with the performer now set to be held in court until the verdict is delivered on Monday.
The case involved seven charges relating to allegations, with Brand denying the criminal charges and maintaining his position throughout the proceedings.
Brand appeared composed as officers escorted him away from the courtroom into custody, with his wife becoming visibly emotional, clutching the hand of a woman sitting beside her as the proceedings unfolded.
The judge’s decision was influenced by concerns about the possibility of Brand fleeing before the conclusion of the case.
The allegations against Brand attracted widespread attention in September 2023, following investigative reports from several women who accused the comedian of sexual misconduct.
Following the revelations, the Metropolitan Police launched an investigation that involved extensive inquiries, interviews with witnesses and examination of documentary evidence.
He is expected to return to court on November 9, for sentencing, where he could face a substantial prison sentence.