Russell Brand could be sentenced to a substantial prison term following his conviction on Thursday, according to the chair of the Bar Council. Kirsty Brimelow told Sky News that the actor and comedian is potentially facing "between six and nine years" behind bars for his crimes.
Brand was found guilty of one rape charge and three counts of sexual assault. He was cleared of two additional rape allegations and a charge of attempted indecent assault. The mixed verdict means the court convicted him on four of the seven counts he faced.
The court denied Brand bail, and he will remain incarcerated until his sentencing hearing, which is set for Monday. The specific date of that hearing has not been disclosed in the reporting.
Despite the acquittals on some charges, a detective who led the investigation into Brand maintains that he continues to pose a threat to women. The detective cited Brand's "position of power and trust" along with his "millions of followers" as factors that keep him a risk, according to TMZ.com.
The case has drawn significant public attention given Brand's high-profile career as a comedian and actor. The Bar Council, which represents barristers in England and Wales, rarely comments publicly on individual cases, making Brimelow's remarks to Sky News notable.
Brand's sentencing on Monday will determine the length of his prison term. The judge will consider the convictions, the detective's assessment of risk, and other factors in handing down the sentence.