Russell Brand is convicted of rape, and judge says he'll get a prison term
British actor and comedian Russell Brand has been convicted of rape and sexual assault charges involving four women. A judge has denied bail and indicated that Brand will face a significant prison sentence.
Why it matters
The conviction of a high-profile public figure on serious sexual assault charges is a significant legal and cultural development.
London — Russell Brand was convicted Thursday of rape and sexual assault charges involving four women on allegations dating back more than 20 years.
Judge Joel Bennathan said the British actor-comedian faces a "significant" prison term when he is sentenced Monday. Brand had been free, but the judge rejected a bail request because of the possibility he might flee and he was taken into custody.
"I regret the hardship caused to the children, of course," the judge said. "But the hardship has been caused by serious criminal offending by their father."
Brand was a ruthless, calculating, manipulative "sexual predator," prosecutor Riel Karmy-Jones said at trial.
Brand, 51, denied the charges and testified that he was obsessed with sex as a young man and once led a promiscuous life but had never forced anyone to do something against their will.
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Russell Brand Convicted of Rape and Sexual Assault in London Court
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