Judge Warns Jurors as Russell Brand’s Rape and Sexual Assault Trial Begins in London

Jury selection began Monday at Southwark Crown Court, where Russell Brand faces trial on seven charges involving six women. Judge Joel Bennathan asked prospective jurors whether they had seen a television documentary or read a newspaper investigation about allegations against Brand; those who recalled the coverage were excluded. He also warned selected jurors not to research the defendant. Brand denies three counts of rape, three of sexual assault and one of indecent assault, relating to alleged incidents between 1999 and 2009. Prosecutors are expected to open their case Wednesday.