On May 2, British comedian and actor Russell Brand appeared in Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London to face serious criminal charges. He has been accused of rape, sexual assault, and indecent assault involving four different women. The alleged incidents took place between 1999 and 2005, in locations such as Bournemouth and Westminster.

The specific charges include two counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault, and one count of indecent assault. One of the accusations involves a woman who says Brand raped her in Bournemouth in 1999. Another claims he forced her to perform a sexual act and assaulted her in 2004. The remaining cases involve indecent and sexual assault in the early 2000s.

Brand, recognised internationally as the husband of pop star Katy Perry after forging a career in Britain with his risque comedy routines, was charged last month. He is 49 years old, appeared in court wearing a casual shirt and jeans. He confirmed his identity and was granted bail. His next court appearance is set for May 30 at the Old Bailey, one of the UK’s highest criminal courts.

These charges follow a major media investigation in 2023 by The Sunday Times, The Times, and Channel 4’s documentaries, which revealed multiple allegations against him. Brand has denied all claims, stating that any sexual activity in his past was always consensual.

The police have said the investigation is ongoing and are encouraging more people to come forward if they have any information.

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