British comedian Russell Brand has appeared at Southwark Crown Court in London for a pre-trial hearing over five charges involving four women, dating back to between 1999 and 2005. Brand has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Russell Brand arrived at Southwark Crown Court on Tuesday as proceedings began ahead of his trial on historical sexual offence charges. The comedian is facing five charges involving four women, including one count of rape, one of oral rape, one of indecent assault and two counts of sexual assault.
The alleged offences are said to have taken place between 1999 and 2005 in central London and Bournemouth. Brand denies the allegations and has pleaded not guilty to all five charges.
The two-day pre-trial hearing is expected to address legal and procedural matters ahead of the main trial, which is scheduled to follow the pre-trial proceedings.
Brand, who remains on conditional bail, has previously denied engaging in any non-consensual sexual activity. The case concerns allegations dating back more than two decades.
The comedian has continued to maintain his innocence as the legal proceedings move forward. The allegations became public following reports and investigations into claims made by several women.
The upcoming trial is expected to last between 10 and 12 weeks, with the court set to hear evidence relating to the allegations and Brand’s defence.
