Russell Brand has been sentenced to ten years and six months for rape and three counts of sexual assault, after being found guilty on Thursday. The judge, Mr Justice Bennathan, delivered his remarks on Monday, confirming the sentence.
Sentencing Delayed Until Afternoon
Witness impact statements were heard earlier in the day, and while the sentencing was initially thought to be taking place in the morning, it was delayed until around 2pm. The sentencing took place at Southwark Crown Court.
As the BBC aired a stream live from the court, it was interrupted several times "for legal reasons." An announcement explained: "Cameras in Court. The video feed has been suspended for legal reasons," reports the Express.
BBC Coverage Interrupted
The BBC then cut to a reporter standing outside Southwark Crown Court, explaining what was happening, ahead of Brand's sentencing. She said: "You're with BBC News where we are bringing you continuing coverage of the sentencing here at Southwark Crown Court of the disgraced comedian Russell Brand."
"The judge, Mr Justice Bennathan is giving his sentencing remarks. He has called Russell Brand a sexual predator, let's listen back in." The stream then returned to inside the court.
Judge's Remarks and Victim Statements
During the sentencing comments, the judge Mr Justice Bennathan described Brand as a "sexual predator" who told a "series of lies" and exhibited "staggering arrogance."
Before his sentencing, victims read their witness impact statements, including one who said: "I wanted to express how this crime has impacted me. I've been in shock and turmoil for weeks. I was extremely upset and traumatised. I didn't have any respect for myself."
"I was thinking I was damaged goods - scared of giving off signals that could be taken the wrong way." She was praised by the judge for her courage, as she concluded: "I just want to say - a leopard may change its spots, but it's still a leopard."
The prosecution counsel also read statements from other victims. One said that Brand's crimes "had a lasting impact on my life." She added that "over the years, hearing his voice on television or seeing his image has made me jump."
Her statement ended with: "Russell Brand is a sexual predator who has no remorse... I just hope he is not allowed to hurt any more women."
After his sentence was announced, and he was taken down to the cells, the BBC noted that Brand mouthed to his wife, Laura Gallacher, who was in attendance: "I love you."
