Jury Sworn In for Russell Brand's Rape and Sexual Assault Trial

Caption: Russell Brand in 2014. Credit: jessie essex / CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

A jury was sworn in on Tuesday, October 13, for Russell Brand’s trial in London on rape and sexual assault-related charges. Eight men and four women were selected, along with one reserve juror. Brand denies seven charges involving allegations from six women, and the prosecution is expected to open its case on Wednesday, October 14.

The panel is selected

At Southwark Crown Court, Judge Joel Bennathan oversaw the selection of eight men and four women as jurors, with an additional reserve chosen to attend the prosecution opening. The panel will decide the case on evidence presented in court, not on earlier public reporting about the allegations.

What the charges involve

The current charges include three counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault and one count of indecent assault, according to reporting on the proceedings. The alleged incidents span 1999 to 2009, a period in which Brand worked in British entertainment and later became known to international audiences. He has pleaded not guilty to every count.

The case moves to the prosecution

Jury selection began on Monday, October 12. By Tuesday, the panel was in place, setting the stage for prosecutor Riel Karmy-Jones to outline the allegations. Brand has pleaded not guilty, and the defense will have an opportunity to challenge the prosecution’s evidence during the trial.

What happens next

The prosecution opening is expected on Wednesday, October 14. The allegations remain unproven, and Brand is presumed innocent unless convicted.

References: Jury sworn in for trial of Russell Brand | Jury selection begins in Russell Brand rape and sexual assault trial