A judge in London reduces an indecent assault charge against actor and comedian Russell Brand, citing “insufficient evidence,” and replaces it with a count of attempted indecent assault. The changes happen partway through the proceedings at Southwark Crown Court, and the trial continues.
Across outlets, the reporting focuses on the judge’s decision to drop one charge and substitute another, with similar descriptions that jurors are told there is not enough evidence for the original indecent assault allegation. Coverage also notes that Brand denies the broader set of rape and sexual assault charges and that he is represented as continuing to contest the case.
Some outlets include more detail about Brand’s own statements. Variety and the Hollywood Reporter both highlight an account in which Brand says in a police statement that he “led a very promiscuous life,” including references to sexual encounters, while other reports concentrate more narrowly on the courtroom charge change and the prosecution’s case being wrapped.
