Convicted rapist Russell Brand was absolutely ‘petrified’ during his first night in prison, which was spent in solitary confinement.
Yesterday, the 51-year-old-actor and comedian was found guilty of raping one woman and sexually assaulting three more.
Following the verdict, Judge Justice Bennathan told Brand he faces ‘a significant custodial term’ and denied him bail. Brand was then remanded into custody ahead of sentencing on Monday.
Now details have emerged as to what happened to Brand after he was taken to HMP Wandsworth, a high-security jail in south-west London.
The Daily Mail reports that Brand spent his first night in the Care and Separation Unit (CSU).
This unit is a deliberately segregated part of the prison where inmates are confined alone. The decision was made to place Brand there after officers deemed him ‘too famous’ to enter the ‘vulnerable prisoner’ wing where sex offenders are normally held.
Inmates held in the CSU reportedly spend most of their days confined to their cells with only limited opportunities for leisure and socialisation.
‘The first night for anyone in a jail is really daunting – and Brand was petrified,’ a source told The Sun.
‘It will be a massive shock to the system for him, and he will be monitored around the clock.
‘All his cockiness will disappear as he takes in his new surroundings.’
The source states that Brand will be ‘relatively safe’ as prison officers will be monitoring him and keeping him away from other inmates
‘Brand will be in London until and after his sentencing but is then likely to be moved somewhere that specialises in sex offenders where he is more out of harm’s way,’ they explained.
The Sun’s source also shared what happened to Brand after he entered the prison. They claim he had his clothes confiscated while in reception before he was strip-searched and scanned.
He also underwent a medical evaluation during which officers asked him to disclose any medication he was taking.
Following that, he was given his prison-issue uniform (jogging bottoms, T-shirt, sweatshirts and underwear) as well as a first-night pack.
This pack includes basic toiletries, basic foodstuffs including tea-making equipment, and a few ‘treats’ – biscuits and Polo mints.
Staff also reportedly offered Brand a Bible and a vape pack.
Brand was then allowed his three-minute phone call, although it is unknown who he rang at this time; it’s widely speculated he called his wife, Laura Gallacher.
His first-night meal was apparently an ‘inedible’ ready meal that was heated in a microwave in reception.
Following the verdict yesterday, it emerged that Brand is being investigated over two more rape allegations and has already been questioned by officers.
‘Today’s verdict is first and foremost a testament to the extraordinary courage, resilience and determination of the women who came forward and reported what happened to them,’ Metropolitan Police Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy said in a statement yesterday.
‘Despite intense media and public scrutiny, they relived deeply personal and traumatic experiences and placed their trust in us. Without their bravery, this outcome would not have been possible.
‘I want to pay tribute to the team of detectives and specialist staff who worked tirelessly on this investigation. Their professionalism, determination and compassion for the victims represent the very best of the Metropolitan Police.
‘Finally, I would urge anyone who may have been a victim of rape or serious sexual assault to speak to us. You will be listened to, supported, and treated with dignity and respect.’