LONDON, England – Russell Brand has been officially charged with rape, indecent assault, and sexual assault related to incidents that occurred between 1999 and 2005, involving four separate women.
The charges follow an investigation launched after serious allegations against Brand were reported by the Sunday Times, the Times, and Channel 4’s Dispatches in September 2023.
In a video posted on social media platform X, Brand denied the allegations, stating, “What I never was, was a rapist. I’ve never engaged in non-consensual activity.”
He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to defend the charges in court, stating, “I’m now going to have the opportunity to defend these charges in court and I’m incredibly grateful for that.”
The Metropolitan Police released a statement confirming that Brand had been informed of the charges, which include one count of rape, one count of indecent assault, one count of oral rape, and two additional counts of sexual assault.
The allegations are as follows:
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In 1999, a woman was allegedly raped in the Bournemouth area.
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In 2001, a woman was allegedly indecently assaulted in Westminster, London.
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In 2004, a woman was allegedly orally raped and sexually assaulted in Westminster, London.
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Between 2004 and 2005, another woman was allegedly sexually assaulted in Westminster, London.
Brand has been scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on May 2. However, reports indicate that he is currently in the United States.
In cases like this, where a suspect may be abroad, prosecutors typically seek the defendant’s voluntary return to the country.
If the suspect does not cooperate, extradition could be pursued.
In addition to the criminal charges, a civil case was filed against Brand in February 2024 at the High Court in London.
The lawsuit, which involves allegations of “personal injury” and “sexual abuse,” was lodged by an anonymous woman known as AGX in court documents.
The Crown Prosecution Service’s Jaswant Narwal stated that after a thorough review of the evidence following the police investigation, it was determined that Brand should face charges for the reported non-recent offenses.
These offenses relate to incidents that allegedly occurred between 1999 and 2005 and involve four women.
Narwal reminded the public that the legal proceedings are active and that Brand has the right to a fair trial.
He urged the public not to share any information online that could prejudice the case.
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, who is overseeing the investigation, added that the women who made the reports are receiving support from specially trained officers.
He also encouraged anyone with relevant information to come forward and contact the police, noting that a dedicated team of investigators is available to assist through email.
