More complaints expected against Russell Brand in UK
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Sowetan
Mark Rowley, the commissioner of London's Metropolitan Police, said on Friday he expected further complaints against Russell Brand following his conviction, the BBC reported. "I clearly wouldn't be surprised if many more come forward," he said, adding that the conviction gives victims confidence: "It makes a difference because people see that it's possible, and you will be believed."
The 51-year-old British comedian, a former husband of American singer Katy Perry, faces a long prison sentence after a London court found him guilty on Thursday of rape and sexual assault against three other women. His sentencing is due on Monday. The police said he was being investigated over two further alleged rapes, one of which involves a girl who was then 16.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham praised the courage of the victims. Asked about a message of support he had sent to Russell Brand on X in 2014, when the comedian was courted by parts of the left for his ability to reach young voters, he said he had not known the extent of his behaviour at the time. "His crimes are horrific. He is rightly being held to account," he said.
Russell Brand is one of the most prominent figures convicted of sexual offences in the UK in recent years, after BBC presenter Huw Edwards, who admitted making indecent images of children two years ago, and entertainer Rolf Harris, found guilty of assaults on young girls in 2014. His conviction follows the one handed down the previous day, Russell Brand found guilty of rape and sexual assault, on 5 November.
