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Katy Perry marriage barred from opening
USA Today • • world
Key Points:
- Prosecutors agreed not to mention Katy Perry in their opening statement during Russell Brand's sexual assault trial after his lawyers objected, although Perry's name came up later when Brand referenced their marriage while testifying.
- Brand, 51, was found guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault related to incidents involving four women between 2004 and 2009, prior to his relationship with Perry.
- He was acquitted of other charges, pleaded not guilty to all seven allegations, and is now awaiting sentencing, with the judge indicating a lengthy prison term is likely.
- Prosecutors stated Brand used his celebrity status to commit the crimes, and the investigation thoroughly pursued all relevant lines of inquiry without involving Perry as a witness.
- Brand remains in custody ahead of sentencing scheduled for November 9, with potential prison terms ranging from 4 years to life for rape and up to 10 years for sexual assault under England and Wales law.
