Russell Brand sentenced to 10 years and six months in prison for rape and sexual assault

BREAKING

Brand's sentencing hearing took place on Monday, and came after he was found guilty of the charges at Southwark Crown Court, after a trial that concluded last week.

In a statement, Judge Mr Justice Bennathan explained his decision in detail during remarks to the court.

Mr Justice Bennathan also told Brand: "You had also become a sexual predator," before adding that the comedian's celebrity status had protected him up until allegations emerged in 2023.

He continued: "Those public declarations that you were a sex offender empowered a number of women to come forward and tell their stories of your activities many years before. 

"I now have to sentence you for the crimes you committed against four women between 2004 and 2009."

During Brand's trial, the jury heard testimony from complainants and witnesses, as well as Brand himself.

Monday's hearing also included a number of statements from victims, as detailed in news reports.

One is reported to have told the court: "This has had a lasting impact on my life even if I thought that I had successfully buried what happened."