British comedian and actor Russell Brand has been formally charged with rape and multiple counts of sexual assault by the Metropolitan Police in London. The charges, which include one count of rape, one of oral rape, one of indecent assault, and two of sexual assault, relate to alleged incidents involving four women between 1999 and 2005.
The investigation into Brand began in September 2023, following allegations published by British media outlets, including Channel 4's documentary program "Dispatches" and The Sunday Times. The alleged offenses include a rape incident in Bournemouth in 1999, an indecent assault in Westminster in 2001, an oral rape and sexual assault in Westminster in 2004, and another sexual assault between 2004 and 2005.
Brand, who has rebranded himself as a social commentator in recent years, has consistently denied the allegations, stating that he has never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity. He is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on May 2.
The police investigation remains open, with detectives urging anyone with relevant information to come forward. The women involved in the case continue to receive support from specially trained officers. The charges against Brand have sparked significant public attention and debate about consent and accountability in the entertainment industry.