Russell Brand Spends First Night in Prison After Conviction

Brand, 51, was taken to prison after the verdict and underwent a medical assessment and strip search. He was issued prison clothing and placed in an induction cell. Staff assessed his mental state and monitored him through the night, following standard procedures for new inmates.

He received toiletries, food and a Bible, and was permitted one brief phone call. His wife, Laura Gallacher, had supported him during the trial. Brand is being kept apart from other prisoners and watched around the clock, with concerns raised about his safety because of his public profile and the nature of his convictions.

Before the trial, Brand told Gallacher in a recorded conversation that he disliked the possibility of going to prison. She replied that jail was one possible outcome of a trial. In an earlier interview, he said he would be with God wherever he was.

Brand pleaded not guilty and denied the allegations, saying his sexual encounters were consensual. He has described the claims as false. He is due to be sentenced on Monday and is expected to move to another prison afterward.