Russell Brand has been warned he faces a substantial custodial sentence after being convicted of one count of rape and one count of sexual assault. The 51-year-old has spent his first night in custody after being refused bail at Southwark Crown Court following the verdicts.
Court Proceedings and Remand
Brand was reportedly "petrified" and left hungry after being served an "inedible" microwave meal upon his arrival at prison. Following the guilty verdicts, Mr Justice Bennathan warned Brand that a lengthy jail sentence awaits him.
Mr Justice Bennathan told 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."
Verdicts and Sentencing Date
Brand, who is due to be sentenced on Monday, was found not guilty of one count of rape and one count of attempted indecent assault. He had denied all the charges throughout his trial.
In the aftermath of his conviction, it can now be disclosed that the Metropolitan Police are investigating rape allegations brought forward by two further women.
Police Statement and Further Allegations
A statement issued by the Met said it hoped Brand's convictions would give any other victims of sexual crimes "courage" to come forward. "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."
Long-Term Consequences
Even following Brand's completion of the prison term handed down to him, his existence will be permanently altered, as Colin Rawson, a partner in the crime department at law firm Stephensons, outlined.
He said: "Following Russell Brand's conviction, Mr Justice Bennathan adjourned the case for sentencing on Monday. Given the seriousness of the offences, Mr Brand now faces a significant custodial sentence. Should that sentence exceed 30 months' imprisonment, he would also become subject to indefinite notification requirements, meaning he would be required to keep the police informed of key personal details for the rest of his life."
"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."
Brand's wife, Laura Gallacher, who had stood steadfastly by her husband throughout the duration of his trial, appeared visibly shaken as the verdicts were delivered. Following his remand into custody, she was seen being supported by Brand's security guard as she made her way out of the courtroom.
