The sentencing of comedian Russell Brand for rape and sexual assault has been described as a “powerful demonstration of why investigative journalism matters”.
Brand, now 51, was jailed for 10-and-a-half years at Southwark Crown Court on Thursday after being convicted of abuse against four victims. The case followed an investigation by Channel 4 and The Sunday Times and The Times.
Accusations from women who said they had been raped, sexually abused or degraded by Brand were published in September 2023.
Channel 4 praises women's courage
A statement from Channel 4’s Dispatches programme praised the women who came forward and those who gave evidence in court.
Louisa Compton, director of news, digital and audience trust, said: “The courage of these women who gave evidence through the criminal justice system and those who trusted our Channel 4 and The Sunday Times/The Times journalists with deeply personal testimony should never be underestimated.
“Today, and throughout the trial, we have heard of the trauma suffered by the women in this case. Above all else, we commend their bravery.
“This case is also a powerful demonstration of why investigative journalism matters.
“The women who trusted the original Dispatches investigation helped give others the confidence to come forward.
“That is an extraordinary legacy of their decision to speak out.
“We owe them an enormous debt of gratitude and Channel 4 will continue to back rigorous, fearless public-interest journalism that gives people a voice and holds power to account.”
Judge highlights impact of reporting
During sentencing, the judge said the allegations in the press and TV against Brand “empowered a number of women to come forward and tell their stories”.
Mr Justice Bennathan also said Brand was protected as a sexual offender until journalists published allegations against him in the Channel 4 documentary and articles in The Times and Sunday Times.
He added: “Those public declarations that you were a sex offender empowered a number of women to come forward and tell their stories.”
The judge criticised Brand’s “staggering arrogance” as he sentenced him to 10-and-a-half years in prison for rape and three counts of sexual assault.
