Russell Brand sentenced to more than 10 years in prison for rape and sexual assaults

LONDON — British comedian and actor Russell Brand was sentenced to 10 years and six months in prison for rape and sexual assault by a London court on Monday.

The lengthy prison term of over a decade completes a stunning fall from grace for Brand, 51, who found fame on both sides of the Atlantic chronicling his promiscuity and battles with addiction.

He was found guilty on Thursday of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault. He had pleaded not guilty to all counts and denied all of the allegations.

Brand appeared in the London court Monday wearing a dark suit and at times making a sign of the cross, as the judge, Justice Joel Bennathan, called him a “sexual predator” before delivering his sentence. The judge had warned last week that Brand faced a “significant” prison term for his crimes.

The judge also paid tribute to the “determination and bravery” of the women who gave testimony.

Under English law, the maximum sentence for rape is life imprisonment, and 10 years for one count of sexual assault, according to Britain’s sentencing council.

Brand’s female victims told the court Monday — in person and in written statements —…

Original source: https://www.nbcnews.com/sports