Comedian and actor Russell Brand faces a substantial prison term after being found guilty of rape and sexual assault at the conclusion of a high-profile trial.
The 51-year-old was convicted of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault.
The jury acquitted him on three remaining counts, having deliberated on seven total charges that included three counts of rape, three of sexual assault, and one of attempted indecent assault.
The charges against Brand stemmed from events spanning a decade between 1999 and 2009, involving six women who, under English law, retain lifelong anonymity.
Following the verdicts, the trial judge remanded Brand in custody, warning the performer that “obviously a custodial sentence of some length will result.” He will remain in custody until his formal sentencing on Monday.
During the court proceedings, the prosecution described the entertainer as a calculating and manipulative “sexual predator” who used his influence to exploit his victims.
The panel of eight men and four women deliberated for over eight hours across two days before reaching their final decision.
Throughout the trial, Brand denied all charges brought against him.
While acknowledging in his testimony that he had led a promiscuous lifestyle and had been obsessed with sex in his younger years, he maintained that all his sexual encounters were entirely consensual and that he had never forced anyone into sexual acts against their will.
Meanwhile, the police authorities are actively investigating further rape allegations made against Brand by two additional women.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
