By Salma El-Sakka
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said he would not be surprised if “many more” accusers come forward following the conviction of comedian Russell Brand for rape and sexual assault.
Conviction details
Brand, 51, was found guilty on Thursday of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault after a four-week trial at Southwark Crown Court. The jury cleared him of two other rape charges and one count of attempted indecent assault.
Further investigations
Police revealed Brand is under investigation for two additional alleged rapes, including one involving a 16-year-old schoolgirl. Sir Mark told BBC Breakfast that two more cases are being investigated and high-profile convictions often lead to an “upsurge” in reporting because they give victims confidence to speak up.
Comments on victim blaming
Sir Mark said some of the defence arguments reported from the trial were “getting very close to victim blaming.” He strongly supported Victims’ Commissioner Claire Waxman’s call for a legal duty requiring judges to issue directions to juries on rape myths in every rape trial. He emphasized that victims react in varied ways and no single behavior should undermine a case.
Broader context
Sir Mark added that the case illustrates how power imbalances enable sexual offending, whether by a celebrity, a family member, or a professional. He stressed that police will support victims regardless of the perpetrator’s status.
Sentencing pending
Brand remains in custody and is due to be sentenced on Monday. His wife, Laura Gallacher, attended much of the trial. Six women gave evidence during the proceedings, detailing assaults spanning from 2004 to 2009.
