Prison chiefs are reportedly keeping a close watch on Russell Brand amid concerns he could establish a Christian cult while serving his sentence. The former comedian was jailed on Monday for rape and sexual assault.
Concerns Over Preaching Behind Bars
Insiders say there are growing fears that Brand could continue his preaching while in custody, as he maintains his innocence. The 51-year-old is beginning a 10-and-a-half-year term after being found guilty of rape and sexual assault charges following an eight-week trial.
A prison insider said: "There is not a lot of empathy towards his victims, he still maintains he is innocent."
"He still will say to anyone who will listen that he believes it is the system against him, a mockery of the justice system and believes he has been stitched up by higher powers."
Housing and Risk Assessment
Brand is believed to be alone in a cell following a Cell-Sharing Risk Assessment (CSRA), though this is not expected to be a long-term arrangement. He is understood to be on C-wing, where many prisoners are considered vulnerable.
"It is not a nicer part," the insider continued. "But it is probably being seen as an acclimatisation period for him. He won't be staying there indefinitely, and then things will certainly change."
Religious Activities and Security
It is claimed Brand has already been visited by the prison chaplain and has made clear he will continue to follow his newly found faith. As a born-again Christian, he is expected to take part in Bible group classes at HMP Wandsworth, having previously shown interest in Buddhism and Hinduism.
"People cope in all sorts of ways behind bars," the insider said. "And a lot of time that turns to religion. But extremist views are kept a very close eye on."
"It may be a way for him to rebuild himself, and stay in the public limelight," the insider added. "Inmates who try to preach too much or indoctrinate others into their way of thinking are always regarded as a potential security risk, it makes no difference as to what the religion or following actually is."
Other Celebrity Inmates
Other convicted celebrities have found ways to build relationships inside prison. Rolf Harris worked in the garden at HMP Bullingdon and sketched other inmates, while Max Clifford, jailed for eight years at HMP Littlehey on indecent assault charges, helped inmates with legal letters.
