London’s Metropolitan Police commissioner, Sir Mark Rowley, says he would not be surprised if more people come forward with allegations involving Russell Brand after the comedian is convicted of rape and sexual assault.
Several outlets report Rowley made these comments in connection with how allegations and testimonies were handled during Brand’s trial, including criticism that some remarks in his defence came close to “victim blaming”. The differing coverage focuses on whether Rowley’s emphasis is on possible additional complainants, the treatment of victims’ accounts, or both.
Some publications also highlight Rowley’s expectation of “many, many more” potential victims, while others additionally stress the “power of celebrity” framing and praise the “bravery” of those who already spoke out. A subset of outlets also notes that detectives are investigating two further rape allegations involving Brand, linking the call for more people to the existence of ongoing inquiries.
