Russell Brand Rape Trial Opens at Southwark Crown Court
Prosecution begins its case against Russell Brand, who faces seven charges and has pleaded not guilty; the trial is expected to run into December.
The prosecution began presenting its case against Russell Brand on Wednesday at Southwark Crown Court in London, according to Deadline, in a rape trial expected to continue into December.
Brand faces seven charges: three counts of rape, three charges of sexual assault and one of indecent assault. The charges relate to allegations made by six women and cover a period from 1999 to 2009. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges and has consistently denied wrongdoing.
Riel Karmy-Jones KC is leading the prosecution, and Ian Winter KC is Brand's defense barrister. A jury of eight men and four women was sworn in on Tuesday and sat in Courtroom 3 for the first full day of evidence.
Mr Justice Bennathan dismissed prospective jurors who had watched the 2023 Channel 4 documentary Russell Brand: In Plain Sight or read investigations in The Times of London or The Sunday Times. The judge also asked anyone who had worked for MTV, Channel 4 or Capital Radio to leave.
Brand entered the court in a black pinstripe suit, buttoned-down shirt and white tie, accompanied by his wife, Laura. He told Sky News he felt blessed and concerned but hopeful the process would lead to good outcomes.
Quick answers
What charges does Russell Brand face?
He faces seven charges: three counts of rape, three charges of sexual assault and one of indecent assault. The charges relate to allegations made by six women and cover a period from 1999 to 2009.
Where is the trial taking place and how long will it last?
The trial is at Southwark Crown Court in London and is expected to continue into December.
Who is representing the prosecution and defense?
Riel Karmy-Jones KC is leading the prosecution, and Ian Winter KC is Brand's defense barrister.