British actor and comedian Russell Brand has gone on trial in London over allegations of rape and sexual assault involving six women, with prosecutors opening their case before a jury on Wednesday, October 14.
Brand, 51, has pleaded not guilty to three counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault and one count of indecent assault. The alleged offences date from 1999 to 2009.
According to an Associated Press report published by Arab News, prosecutor Riel Karmy-Jones told Southwark Crown Court that the complainants came forward independently and did not know one another.
The prosecution outlined alleged incidents in hotel accommodation, workplaces, a bar and Brand’s home. Jurors were told that some women delayed reporting their allegations because of shame and fears that they would be blamed.
A former friend, Mark Pinheiro, became the first witness to give evidence. He described Brand’s behaviour during a 1999 trip to Bournemouth. Defence counsel Ian Winter challenged his recollection of events more than 25 years ago.
The proceedings follow jury selection earlier this week, reported by Reuters. Brand denies engaging in non-consensual sexual activity. The trial is expected to last up to ten weeks, and no verdict has been reached.
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