Russell Brand could face ‘segregation’ in prison as legal expert explains why he was sentenced to ten years
Warning: This article contains discussion of rape and sexual assault which some readers may find distressing.
Russell Brand has already made his way to the cells after being sentenced to more than ten years in prison, with legal experts suggesting that extra measures may be put in place for his safety.
The former comedian and actor, now 51, was found guilty at Southwark Crown Court of raping a woman in 2009, as well as sexually assaulting female TV and radio workers between 2004 and 2009.
As he clutched a crucifix and was made to face one of his victims in court on Monday (9 November), he was sentenced to ten years and six months in prison.
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A four-week trial heard how he preyed on women that he encountered on his way to becoming one of Britain’s best-known comedians. Judge Mr Justice Bennathan described him as a 'clever sexual predator' who believe fame could allow him to 'act however he liked'.
Brand showed no emotion as he was jailed for the term, of which he must serve two thirds before being eligible for release.
He told his wife 'we’ll be OK' as he was taken downstairs by the dock officers, with members of the press also trying to get pictures of him inside the custody van.
Brand could be segregated for his safety
Paul McGinn, partner in the abuse team at legal firm Bolt Burdon Kemp, has told LADbible how the judge actually reached the sentence, and that Brand may be facing segregation upon his arrival on the wing.
Following the hearing, he is expected to be processed through a London holding facility before being assigned to a long-term prison.
He was previously being held on remand at HMP Wandsworth, a category B facility which is one of the biggest in the UK.
'His notoriety may mean he’s kept separate from the wider prison population'
Reports suggested he was placed in the Care and Separation Unit (CSU), sometimes known as 'the Block' immediately afterwards.
“Whilst it’s hard to say what experience Brand will have behind bars, his notoriety may mean he’s kept separate from the wider prison population to ensure his safety," McGinn explained.
According to reports prison staff will need to closely monitor his safety when he is eventually placed behind bars.
Describing how the judge reached the ten-year and six-month sentence, McGinn explained that starting point for sentencing will have been considered, as well as the impact on the victims in each case.
He was sentenced to nine months, 18 months, and eight months respectively for his three counts of sexual assault, which will run concurrently against one another.
These will however run consecutively with his charge of rape, for which he was sentenced to nine years in prison.
He added: “In arriving at Brand’s sentence, the judge will have first considered the sentencing guidelines.
"For rape, the maximum sentence is life imprisonment, with the starting point and sentencing range depending on the seriousness of the offending – for rape, this is between four and 19 years."
'The women who gave evidence in this case spoke powerfully and bravely'
McGinn went on: "The judge then assesses the impact on each victim, including the psychological or physical harm caused.
"The women who gave evidence in this case spoke powerfully and bravely about the lasting trauma they have experienced, and their victim impact statements, alongside the prosecution's submissions, played a significant role in today's sentencing.
“High-profile cases like this can be difficult and distressing for survivors to read about, often bringing back painful memories or prompting reflection on their own experiences.
"At the same time, seeing survivors speak out and be heard can be empowering, and may encourage others to seek support, report abuse, or pursue justice when they feel ready.
“The question now for many will be what comes next. In cases like this, a civil claim can play an important role alongside the criminal process, offering a different route to justice.
"While the criminal courts are concerned with determining guilt and imposing sanctions, a civil claim focuses on the survivor, the harm they have suffered, and the impact the abuse has had on their life.
"Compensation can help provide access to therapy and treatment, as well as address financial losses and other consequences arising from the abuse.”
If you have been affected by any of the issues in this article and wish to speak to someone in confidence, contact the Rape Crisis England and Wales helpline on 0808 500 222, available 24/7. If you are currently in danger or need urgent medical attention, you should call 999.
Topics: Russell Brand, Crime, UK News, Celebrity
James Holt
