Comedian and actor Russell Brand has been convicted of rape and sexual assaults by a jury at Southwark Crown Court in London, after a trial lasting four weeks.

The jury found the 51-year-old guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault. He was acquitted of two further counts of rape and one count of attempted indecent assault. Brand had denied all of the charges against him.

Verdict after four-week trial

The charges were brought by six women and related to alleged offences spanning the years in which Brand rose from stand-up comedy to television presenting and film roles. Prosecutors told the court that Brand had used his fame and position to take advantage of women, a claim he rejected throughout the proceedings.

The jury deliberated for about eight and a half hours before returning its verdicts on Thursday, 5 November. The convicted counts involved four women, with the offences dated between 2004 and 2009.

Remanded ahead of sentencing

Judge Joel Bennathan refused Brand bail after the verdicts and remanded him in custody. Sentencing is due on Monday, 9 November, and the judge warned Brand to expect a significant custodial term. Rape carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment in England and Wales, while sexual assault carries a maximum of ten years.

Separate investigation continues

The Metropolitan Police said its investigation remains open in relation to rape allegations made by two other women, including one said to involve a then 16-year-old girl. Those allegations have not been tested in court, and no charges have been reported in connection with them.

Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy praised the courage of the women who came forward, saying the convictions reflected their determination to report what had happened to them.