Russell Brand was sentenced to 10 years and six months at Southwark Crown Court on Monday after being convicted of one charge of rape and three counts of sexual assault. His wife, Laura Gallacher, stood by his side throughout the trial and was present in court for the sentencing.
Support in Court
Laura arrived at court with Brand each day. As the sentencing hearing paused for lunch, Brand was seen clutching a crucifix and acknowledged his wife and his entourage with a wink and a nod. Earlier, after arriving at court, Brand was heard telling his wife: "It'll be OK, I don't know how, but it will." She replied "oh God" before telling him "I love you" as he went to the dock.
During the trial, Laura gave evidence, telling the court she was "aware" of his promiscuity and that "it was difficult for him to be monogamous." She described her husband as "caring," "kind," and "a wonderful father to our children," adding that he is "an amazingly attentive husband."
Defence Statement
Defence barrister Ian Winter KC told the court that Laura is "standing by" Brand. He said: "Words are completely inadequate… to convey the total devastation she's experiencing. They are wrestling with how to explain to a child who's just turned 10 what has just happened here and the consequences of this conduct to totally innocent people who have been caught up in it."
One of the final exchanges between Brand and his wife saw the pair say "I love you" to one another before he was sent down. Laura was on the verge of tears in court, and she had earlier appeared to mouth "I love you" toward him when he first entered the court.
After the Sentencing
As Brand was convicted on Thursday, Laura left the court in tears. She returned on Monday for the sentencing, telling Brand "I love you," and he said to her as he was led away: "We'll be OK."
Following the sentencing, Laura left Southwark Crown Court making no expression and answering no questions. She got into a black minivan parked behind a crowd outside, surrounded by a team that included security, as cameras flashed. Questions asked to Laura included "why are you standing by him?" and "how do you feel? Do you have a message to the victims?"
