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Russell Brand Faces Formal Charges of Sexual Assault
Entertainer Russell Brand is formally accused of multiple sexual offences, including rape and indecent assault, against four women, according to police. The 50-year-old actor and comedian now confronts charges in court encompassing one count each of rape, indecent assault, and oral rape, alongside two counts of sexual assault, concerning allegations from four distinct individuals.
Brand’s Response: “I Am Innocent”
In a video message posted on X, captioned “my response,” Brand addressed the accusations, initially speaking broadly about the justice system.
“I have consistently shared with you my past as a ‘foolish man’ during my younger, single years, prior to marriage and family life,” Brand stated. “However, I unequivocally deny the allegations of rape and non-consensual acts. I implore you to recognize my sincerity.”
He further added, “I extend my gratitude for the continued support I have received. I welcome the opportunity to contest these charges within the legal system. In the meantime, remain free, and we will continue to address this matter. Praise the Lord.”
Investigation and Charges Detailed
The decision to charge the Hollywood personality follows an inquiry initiated by detectives in September 2023. This investigation was prompted by numerous claims emerging after investigative reporting by Channel 4’s Dispatches program and The Sunday Times newspaper.
The Metropolitan Police have now formally declared that Brand faces charges for the alleged rape of a woman in 1999 within the Bournemouth region. He is also charged with the alleged oral rape and sexual assault of another woman in 2004 in the Westminster area of London.
Further charges include indecent assault against a woman in 2001 and sexual assault against another woman between 2004 and 2005, both reportedly occurring in Westminster, London.
Court Appearance Scheduled
Brand, presently married and a father of two, is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Friday, May 2. Jaswant Narwal, representing the Crown Prosecution Service, stated, “Today, we have authorized the Metropolitan Police to formally charge Russell Brand with multiple sexual offences. We diligently reviewed the evidence gathered during the police investigation, which stemmed from allegations that surfaced after a Channel 4 documentary broadcast in September 2023.”
“Our assessment concluded that Russell Brand should be charged with a range of offences, including rape, sexual assault, and indecent assault. These charges pertain to reported incidents dating between 1999 and 2005 involving four women. His initial court hearing is set for Friday, May 2, 2025, at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. The Crown Prosecution Service emphasizes that active legal proceedings are underway, and the accused is entitled to a fair trial. Public commentary or information sharing online that could potentially prejudice these proceedings is strongly discouraged.”
Police Appeal for Information and Support for Victims
Detectives from Scotland Yard have collaborated with Operation Hydrant officers, a specialist police unit established following the Jimmy Savile case to address historical sexual offence allegations.
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy of the Metropolitan Police, who is leading the inquiry, commented on the charges against Russell Brand: “The women who have come forward are receiving ongoing support from specially trained officers. The Metropolitan Police investigation remains active, and detectives urge anyone affected by this case or possessing relevant information to contact the police. A dedicated team of investigators can be reached via email at [email protected].”
“Furthermore, support services are available through the independent charity Rape Crisis.”