Additional women contact UK police after Russell Brand rape and sexual assault trial

Since Russell Brand's trial began, more women have reported allegations against him, according to a UK police chief. Brand was sentenced to over 10 years for rape and sexual assault, with his defense lawyer facing backlash for victim-blaming comments. Critics, including UK officials and support organizations, condemned the defense's tactics as outdated and harmful. The trial has sparked discussions on the need for reform in how sexual assault cases are handled in court. Some in the U.S. have defended Brand, labeling the situation a political attack. Brand's past as a leftist figure contrasts sharply with his current alignment with right-wing populism.