Russell Brand has been remanded in custody following his conviction at Southwark Crown Court for one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault, meaning he was unable to say goodbye to his wife Laura Gallacher and their three children before being taken to prison.
The 51-year-old comedian and actor was said to be "petrified" and "hungry" after receiving what has been described as an "inedible" microwave meal during his first evening behind bars. At his hearing, Brand was also found not guilty of one count of rape and one count of attempted indecent assault.
Judge's Remarks and Remand Decision
After the verdict, Mr Justice Bennathan addressed Brand: "Sit down Mr Brand. Mr Winter, Ms Karmy-Jones, just on what happens next given the verdict on count six at least, obviously a custodial sentence of some length will result. You've been convicted of a number of offences including rape. The consequence of that is inevitably a significant custodial term. My current view is that I therefore have to remand you into custody."
The comedian and actor had denied all the allegations and responded only by momentarily closing his eyes when the verdicts were announced, displaying no emotion. When informed he was being denied bail and would be held in custody, Brand gazed upwards and stayed quiet as he was escorted down to the cells.
Legal Explanation for Bail Refusal
Colin Rawson, a partner in the crime department at law firm Stephensons, outlined why Brand was denied bail. Mr Rawson said: "An application was made for Mr Brand's bail to continue until sentencing. However, Mr Justice Bennathan refused the application, revoked bail and remanded him into custody.
"Bail is reviewed throughout criminal proceedings, but where a defendant has been convicted of serious offences and is facing a lengthy prison sentence, it is common for the court to conclude that the risk of absconding has increased. In those circumstances, remanding a defendant into custody pending sentence is far from unusual."
Reaction and Police Statement
Brand's wife seemed visibly distressed and on the verge of tears as the verdicts were delivered. Laura attended court to hear her husband's outcome and was observed breathing heavily when the guilty verdicts were announced. The mother-of-three was clasping the hand of a woman beside her and, when the judge informed Brand he was being held in custody, Laura placed her hand over her mouth and appeared to require support from her husband's security guard as she departed the courtroom.
After the verdicts, the Metropolitan Police issued a statement saying: "Today's verdict is first and foremost a testament to the extraordinary courage, resilience and determination of the women who came forward and reported what happened to them," Det Supt Andy Furphy said. "Despite intense media and public scrutiny, they relived deeply personal and traumatic experiences and placed their trust in us. Without their bravery, this outcome would not have been possible. Brand used his influence, status and fame to exploit and sexually offend against women.
"As his profile grew, so too did his sense of entitlement. I hope this conviction sends a clear message that no one is above the law, no matter how famous or powerful they may be. I want to pay tribute to the team of detectives and specialist staff who worked tirelessly on this investigation. Their professionalism, determination and compassion for the victims represent the very best of the Metropolitan Police.
"Finally, I would urge anyone who may have been a victim of rape or serious sexual assault to speak to us. You will be listened to, supported, and treated with dignity and respect."
Following the conclusion of his trial and the delivery of verdicts, it can now be revealed that Brand is additionally under investigation regarding the alleged rape of two further women.
