Prosecutors label British comedian Russell Brand 'ruthless', 'sexual predator'

Comedian, actor pleaded not guilty to 3 counts of rape, 3 counts of sexual assault, 1 count of indecent assault

UK prosecutors alleged that Russell Brand was "ruthless," and a "sexual predator," as the 51-year-old comedian's rape and sexual assault trial began Wednesday. Opening the prosecution's case, Riel Karmy-Jones, King's Counsel, told the court that the circumstances of the offending were "as wide and as varied as the defendant's career." "Offending took place in a number of locations: a hotel room, workplaces, a toilet cubicle in a bar and at his home address," she said. "He (Russell Brand) was ruthless, calculated and manipulative, and the prosecution say - a sexual predator." The comedian and actor has pleaded not guilty to three counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault and one count of indecent assault, the BBC reported. The allegations from six women date from 1999 to 2009. Arriving at court, Brand said he felt "blessed," adding, "I feel of course concerned but hopeful this process will lead to good outcomes for everybody - that is my prayer."