LONDRES (AP) — Recently, British authorities brought forward additional charges of rape and sexual assault against comedian Russell Brand, who already faced similar allegations related to four women. The Crown Prosecution Service announced that the new charges—one count of rape and one of sexual assault—are connected to two additional women, with the alleged offenses occurring in 2009.
Brand, 50, had previously been charged in April with two counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault, and one count of indecent assault. These charges followed an 18-month investigation triggered by allegations from four women claiming they were assaulted by the controversial comedian. The prosecutors noted that the incidents allegedly happened between 1999 and 2005, with one occurring in the coastal town of Bournemouth and the other three in London.
Earlier this year, Brand pleaded not guilty to the initial charges in a London court. He is scheduled to appear in court again on January 20 regarding the two new charges, and a trial is set for June next year, which is expected to last four to five weeks.
The actor from "Get Him To The Greek," known for his bold comedic performances and struggles with drugs and alcohol, has distanced himself from mainstream media in recent years. He has built a significant online following with videos that blend wellness, conspiracy theories, and discussions about religion. When the first charges were announced in April, Brand expressed his willingness to have the opportunity to prove his innocence.