Jury in Russell Brand rape trial begins considering verdicts
The jury has begun deliberations in the trial of Russell Brand, who faces multiple charges of rape and sexual assault spanning 1999 to 2009. Brand has pleaded not guilty, maintaining that his past sexual encounters were consensual despite his admission of using fame to facilitate access.
Why it matters
The case involves a high-profile public figure and addresses significant issues regarding consent, power dynamics, and the impact of historical allegations on the legal process.
Image source, Reuters By Ian Youngs Culture reporter Published 10 minutes ago The jury has begun considering the verdicts in Russell Brand's rape and sexual assault trial.
The media personality, 51, has been on trial at Southwark Crown Court in London for three weeks, facing three counts of rape, three of sexual assault and one of attempted indecent assault.
He has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. Giving evidence, he told the court he had been "obsessed" with sex in the past, but insisted it was always consensual.
The charges relate to allegations from six women spanning a decade between 1999 and 2009. Prosecutors said the complainants described him as someone who "didn't listen" when they said no, and "didn't care".
On Tuesday, judge Mr Justice Bennathan told the jury of eight men and four women he can only accept a verdict they all agree on.
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