Prosecution Opens Case Against Russell Brand in London Sex Crimes Trial

Prosecutors described British actor and comedian Russell Brand as a “ruthless, calculated and manipulative” sexual predator as his trial on rape and sexual assault charges began Wednesday at London’s Southwark Crown Court.

Brand, 51, has pleaded not guilty to seven charges involving six women: three counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault and one count of indecent assault. The alleged offences span 1999 to 2009, when his career was rising from stand-up comedy to television, radio and film.

Opening the prosecution’s case, Riel Karmy-Jones told jurors that some of the women protested or said no, while others had no opportunity to react. She alleged that Brand was undeterred and used charm when seeking sexual contact but could become demanding and entitled. The alleged incidents occurred in locations including a hotel room, workplaces, a bar toilet and Brand’s home.

Prosecutors outlined individual accusations, including one woman’s allegation that Brand pulled her toward a toilet at a Soho bar in 2004 before she escaped his grasp. Another woman alleges that Brand raped her anally at his home after consensual sex and ignored repeated pleas to stop. These claims have not been proven in court.

A jury of eight men and four women was sworn in Tuesday. The judge instructed jurors not to research Brand or consult previous reporting during the proceedings. The trial is expected to last about six weeks.