Comedian Russell Brand charged in UK for alleged rape, sexual assault

UK police on Friday charged British actor and comedian Russell Brand in connection with sexual assault and rape, following an 18-month investigation.

The investigation stems from allegations from four women who said Brand sexually assaulted them.

Brand faces one count of rape, two of sexual assault, one count of oral rape and one count of indecent assault, according to the London Metropolitan Police.

The incidents allegedly occured between 1999 and 2005 in the English town of Bournemouth.

Brand has denied the allegations and has said all of his relationships have been consensual, according to The Associated Press.

Brand moved to the U.S. in 2022, but must return to London for a court hearing by May 2.