London: Former actor and comedian Russell Brand has been sentenced to 10 years and six months in prison after being found guilty of rape and three counts of sexual assault.

The sentence was handed down on Monday at Southwark Crown Court in London by Judge Joel Bennathan, who described Brand as a “sexual predator” and criticised his treatment of women. The judge also remarked that Brand’s celebrity status had shielded him from scrutiny until allegations against him came to light in 2023 through investigations published by Channel 4 and The Times.

During the sentencing hearing, the judge highlighted what he called Brand’s “staggering arrogance” and criticised those around him for enabling his behaviour.

Brand, however, has consistently denied the allegations and maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings. During the trial, he told the jury that consent was fundamental to any sexual relationship.

His wife, Laura Brand, was present during the hearing and had earlier testified in his defence, describing him as attentive and kind.

The verdict was delivered last week, with the jury finding Brand guilty of one rape charge and three sexual assault offences. However, he was acquitted of two additional rape charges and one count of attempted indecent assault.

The allegations involved six women and related to incidents said to have occurred between 1999 and 2009 at various locations. The charges also included an alleged attempted indecent assault at MTV’s UK offices in 2001 and a sexual assault allegation dating back to 2009.

The court had earlier remanded Brand into custody ahead of sentencing, with the judge indicating that a substantial prison term was likely.

The case follows a series of allegations that emerged publicly in 2023, triggering investigations into Brand’s alleged conduct over several years.