LONDON — The Metropolitan Police are investigating additional “potential criminal allegations” against disgraced comedian Russell Brand after several people came forward in the wake of his conviction and sentencing, the force confirmed this week.
According to a Met spokesperson, multiple individuals contacted detectives during the trial and following Brand’s sentencing “to provide information or report a potential criminal allegation.” The spokesperson added that “detectives are assessing this information as part of their ongoing enquiries.”
Det Supt Andy Furphy, who led the Brand investigation, told BBC Breakfast that officers were “looking at exactly what we’ve got” and determining “whether they’re information that points to behaviour or whether they could constitute a criminal offence.” His comments suggest investigators are weighing whether the new reports meet the threshold for formal criminal inquiry.
Brand, 50, is already under investigation over rape allegations from two additional women, and has been interviewed under caution in connection with those claims. On Monday, he was sentenced to 10 years and six months in prison after being convicted of rape and sexual assault.
In his sentencing remarks, Judge Joel Bennathan branded Brand a “sexual predator” and condemned what he called the comedian’s “staggering arrogance.” The case has drawn intense international attention, with a senior Met Police boss saying he “wouldn’t be surprised” if further allegations emerge against the former television and radio star. Detectives continue to assess the newly reported claims, and no additional charges have been announced.
