Russell Brand arrives at court as he's set to face rape and sexual assault charges
Russell Brand has arrived at Westminster Magistrates' Court today after being charged with rape and sexual assault last month.
Brand, 49, who is understood to live in the US, was charged by the Metropolitan Police in April with one count each of rape, indecent assault and oral rape, as well as two counts of sexual assault, relating to four separate women. The incidents are alleged to have taken place between 1999 and 2005.
The former comedian, TV and film star arrived at Westminster Magistrates' Court for a pre-trial hearing today. It is understood Brand lives in the US and the charges were posted to him.
He was seen walking slowly into the court as he was surrounded by press and photographers. Russell wore a pair of large sunglasses with dark lenses and a gold trim as he walked to the entrance of the court.
The comedian wore a black shirt, which he left slightly unbuttoned as he made his way from a car into the building.
On Friday April 4, a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed Brand had been charged in a statement. Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, who is leading the investigation, shared details about the case.
He said: "The women who have made reports continue to receive support from specially trained officers. The Met's investigation remains open and detectives ask anyone who has been affected by this case, or anyone who has any information, to come forward and speak with police."
He continued: "A dedicated team of investigators is available via email at CIT@met.police.uk. Support is also available by contacting the independent charity, Rape Crisis at 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line."
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Crown Prosecution Service, Jaswant Narwal, said: "We have today authorised the Metropolitan Police to charge Russell Brand with a number of sexual offences.
"We carefully reviewed the evidence after a police investigation into allegations made following the broadcast of a Channel 4 documentary in September 2023. We have concluded that Russell Brand should be charged with offences including rape, sexual assault and indecent assault. These relate to reported non-recent offences between 1999 and 2005, involving four women."
She added: "The Crown Prosecution Service reminds everyone that criminal proceedings are active, and the defendant has the right to a fair trial. It is extremely important that there be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings."
Following the announcement of the charges, Brand denied the allegations in a video shared on his Instagram. Speaking in the video released shortly after the charges were announced, Brand said: "I've always told you guys that when I was young and single, before I had my wife and family who are just out of shot over there, my beautiful children, I was a fool, man.
"I was a fool, man, before I lived in the light of the Lord. I was a drug addict, a sex addict, and an imbecile, but what I never was, was a rapist. I've never engaged in non-consensual activity, I pray that you can see that by looking in my eyes. I want to thank all of you for your continuing support.
"I want let you know that our show will be on Rumble on Monday, thanks for your support there. And of course I'm now going to have the opportunity to defend these charges in court and I'm incredibly grateful for that. In the meantime you lot, stay free. and we will be continuing to discuss this matter. Praise the Lord."
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