Russell Brand has been sentenced to more than a decade in prison following his convictions for rape and sexual assault in the United Kingdom, according to the Guardian.
The actor and comedian, 51, received a sentence of 10 years and six months Monday at London’s Southwark Crown Court.
The punishment follows a jury’s decision last week to find him guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault.
Brand was convicted of raping a woman in 2009.
The sexual assault convictions involved separate incidents, including an allegation that he grabbed the breasts of a former MTV employee in 2004 and another in which he put his head in the groin of a former Channel 4 employee in 2009.
Brand’s Prison Terms Are Released
The court handed Brand nine years in prison for the rape conviction and an additional 18 months for the three sexual assault offenses.
Under the terms of his sentence, Brand could become eligible for release on license after serving two-thirds of his prison term, which would amount to approximately seven years. Release on license means he would remain subject to conditions and supervision.
Brand reportedly showed little emotion as the sentence was announced. However, as he left the courtroom, he mouthed “I love you” to his wife, Laura Gallacher.
The sentencing comes days after the jury delivered its verdict following a three-day deliberation. Brand was found guilty of the four charges but was acquitted of two additional rape allegations and one count of attempted indecent assault.
Following the verdict, Brand was denied bail and remanded into custody. Two female prison guards escorted him from the courtroom to a holding cell.
During the earlier proceedings, the judge indicated that Brand should expect a substantial prison sentence. The Monday hearing determined the length of his punishment.
Brand denied the allegations throughout the trial. He maintained that the sexual encounters were consensual and rejected claims that he forced women to engage in sexual activity against their will.
The convictions stem from allegations involving six women and incidents that reportedly occurred between 1999 and 2009. The case has also brought renewed attention to other accusations involving the comedian.
Brand Is Still Being Investigated for Other Allegations
Brand remains under investigation by London’s Metropolitan Police over two additional allegations of rape. One reportedly involves a woman who was 16 when she dated Brand, who was 30 at the time.
Those allegations are separate from the charges for which he was convicted Monday, and no findings of guilt have been announced in connection with them.
Brand first became known for his work as a comedian and actor, appearing in films including “Forgetting Sarah Marshall.” In recent years, he has also built an online following through his commentary and livestreams.
His latest sentence marks a significant development in the criminal case, although the separate police investigation remains ongoing.
Russell Brand Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison Following Rape and Sexual Assault Convictions