Russell Brand trial: Jury begins deliberations in rape and sexual assault case involving six women

After weeks of testimony and intense courtroom arguments, the future of comedian Russell Brand now rests with a jury in London. Jurors began deliberating on November 3 in the case involving allegations of rape and sexual assault by six women. However, Russell has denied all charges, saying his sexual encounters were consensual. The trial at Southwark Crown Court has drawn attention to questions of consent, celebrity power and how allegations made years later should be considered. The jury is now examining the evidence before deciding whether Brand is guilty or not guilty. Scroll down to find more details.

What charges does Russell Brand face?

Russell pleaded not guilty to three counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault and one count of attempted indecent assault. The allegations relate to incidents said to have taken place between 1999 and 2009, when he was rising from stand-up comedy to become a major figure in British television and entertainment.

The six women, who prosecutors say did not know one another, described alleged incidents at locations including a hotel room, the offices of MTV, a radio station, a recording studio, a bar and Brand’s home.

What did the prosecution and defence say?

Prosecutors described Russell as a “sexual predator” and argued that the women came forward after a 2023 documentary and news reports encouraged them to speak about their experiences. In her closing argument, prosecutor Riel Karmy-Jones said the women “realised they are not alone” after the documentary was released, according to Reuters.

Brand’s lawyer, Ian Winter, argued that the documentary had influenced the women’s memories and that the jury should focus on whether the alleged acts were criminal, rather than on Brand’s behaviour or reputation. “It is not criminal to treat women unkindly before, during or after sex,” Winter told the jury, as reported by the Associated Press.

What did Russell Brand say in court?

Russell Brand gave evidence last week. He acknowledged that he had been highly promiscuous when he was younger and that he had used his fame to gain sexual access to women. However, he maintained that all the encounters at the centre of the case were consensual. He told the court that consent was “non-negotiable,” Reuters reported.

When will the jury deliver its verdict?

Judge Joel Bennathan instructed the jury to reach unanimous decisions on the charges. After deliberating for about an hour on Tuesday, jurors were sent home for the night and told not to discuss the case with anyone.

Russell Brand remains free on bail and has attended the proceedings with his wife, Laura Brand. The jury is expected to continue deliberations, but no timetable has been set for a verdict.