Jury in Russell Brand rape and sexual assault trial retires to consider verdicts

Judge tells jurors he will be able to accept only a unanimous decision on seven charges against the comedian

The jury in Russell Brand’s rape and sexual assault trial has retired to consider its verdicts.

Brand, 51, has been described as a ruthless, calculated and manipulative sexual predator during the three-week trial at Southwark crown court. The comedian is accused of seven offences, including rape and sexual assault, against six women in allegations spanning 10 years from 1999. He denies all the charges.