A London jury handed down a split verdict Thursday in the case against Russell Brand, convicting him of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault while acquitting him on two other rape counts and one attempted indecent assault count. Brand had pleaded not guilty to all seven charges. The judge has scheduled sentencing for Monday, November 9, and warned that a significant custodial term is on the table.
The trial also revealed a behind-the-scenes legal fight over Katy Perry. Submissions obtained by The Telegraph show Brand’s team successfully challenged the prosecution’s attempt to reference his ex-wife in opening statements, arguing their post-2009 relationship was unrelated to the charges. Prosecutors confirmed Perry was never asked for a witness statement during the investigation, meaning one of the most famous names in the story stayed out of the courtroom entirely.
Brand’s father, Ron, told the BBC he was“bemused”and shocked by the outcome, calling it“devastating.”With sentencing just days away, the case moves into its final phase. What do you think Monday’s sentence will look like?
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.