Russell Brand charged with rape and sexual assault

Russell Brand has been charged with rape and sexual assaults, the Metropolitan Police has said.

The comedian and actor is accused of one count each of rape, indecent assault and oral rape as well as two counts of sexual assault.

The charges relate to four separate women.

It comes after a joint investigation by The Sunday Times, The Times, and Channel 4 Dispatches revealed last year that four women had accused Brand of sexual assaults between 2006 and 2013.

The actor has previously denied the accusations, and stated that all his sexual relationships were “absolutely always consensual”.

It is alleged that:

In 1999 a woman was raped in the Bournemouth area
In 2001 a woman was indecently assaulted in the Westminster area of London
In 2004 a woman was orally raped and sexually assaulted in the Westminster area of London
Between 2004 and 2005, a woman was sexually assaulted in the Westminster area of London

Brand will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Friday, May 2.

Metropolitan Police detective superintendent Andy Furphy, who is leading the investigation, said: “The women who have made reports continue to receive support from specially trained officers.

“The Met’s investigation remains open and detectives ask anyone who has been affected by this case, or anyone who has any information, to come forward and speak with police. A dedicated team of investigators is available via email at CIT@met.police.uk.

“Support is also available by contacting the independent charity, Rape Crisis at 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line.”