Russell Brand Arrives in Court for Rape and Sexual Assault Trial
Jury sworn in yesterday as proceedings begin at Southwark Crown Court for allegations spanning a decade.
Carla Rooney
Russell Brand arrived at court today for the start of his rape and sexual assault trial.
A jury of eight men and four women was sworn in yesterday at Southwark Crown Court.
Mr Justice Bennathan, the presiding judge, warned the jury to disregard past reporting about Brand and allegations of sexual misconduct.
The six complainants are entitled to lifelong anonymity.
Prosecutors are set to open their case against Brand on Wednesday; the trial is expected to continue for up to 10 weeks.
Brand, reportedly living in Florida, United States, denies all charges.
His wife, Laura Gallacher, supported him at court; he remains on bail as proceedings continue.
Today I feel blessed, I feel of course concerned but hopeful that this process will lead to good outcomes for everybody involved. That’s my prayer.
Brand stated, "Today I feel blessed, I feel of course concerned but hopeful that this process will lead to good outcomes for everybody involved. That’s my prayer."
The prosecution claims Brand raped a woman in a hotel room during the Labour Party conference in Bournemouth.
Further claims allege he grabbed a TV worker’s breasts and forced her into a sex act in a toilet.
He is also accused of kissing and groping a radio station worker; other claims detail groping women and forcing them into sexual acts.
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