By Karim Hammam
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Mark Rowley has urged anyone with fresh allegations against Russell Brand to come forward, following the former comedian’s conviction on Thursday for rape and sexual assault.
Conviction details
Brand, 51, was found guilty of raping a woman at his luxury London townhouse and of sexually assaulting three women in front of his entourage at their workplaces, a radio station and a television studio. During the trial he was described as a ruthless, calculated and manipulative sexual predator.
Further investigations
The Metropolitan Police is also investigating two additional rape allegations against Brand and has submitted files to the Crown Prosecution Service. Rowley told Times Radio that officers are examining those two allegations and are encouraging any other potential victims to contact police.
Police appeal
Speaking later on BBC Breakfast, Rowley said he would not be surprised if “many more” alleged victims emerged in the wake of the conviction.
Industry power dynamics
The charges followed a 2023 Channel 4 Dispatches documentary and reports by The Times and The Sunday Times. Dorothy Byrne, a former head of news and current affairs at Channel 4, warned of a power disparity between high‑profile talent and younger staff on short‑term contracts, which she said often silences victims for fear of professional retaliation.
Turning point
Byrne expressed hope that the Brand case could mark a turning point, adding that some men who have behaved badly may now feel frightened because brave young women have come forward to the police.
