Brand, 51, was escorted into the dock by two prison guards shortly after 11 a.m., according to Sky News. Gallacher appeared distressed before the hearing, taking deep breaths and holding the hands of two women beside her. She reportedly rubbed her chest and said, “My heart’s going.”
The court heard that Brand also tried to reassure his wife, telling her things would be okay while acknowledging he did not know how, ITV News reported. His father, Ronald Brand, was among the family members and supporters in court. Gallacher had attended the November 5 verdict and was reportedly seen leaving in tears after the jury found Brand guilty.
Brand’s defense lawyer, Ian Winter KC, described the verdict’s effect on Gallacher as “total devastation,” according to LBC. Winter said the couple was struggling to explain the situation to their eldest child, who had just turned 10, and was trying to find the right words.
The offenses involved four women and took place between 2004 and 2009. Judge Joel Bennathan sentenced Brand to 10 years and six months: nine years for rape and a further 18 months for the sexual assaults. The Associated Press reported that the judge called Brand a “sexual predator” and criticized his treatment of women during his rise to fame. Brand will be eligible for parole after serving two-thirds of his sentence.
The women addressed the court about the effects of the abuse on their confidence, relationships and mental health. One said Brand’s fame had made her fear that nobody would believe her; another described lasting distress when seeing him on television or hearing his voice. Gallacher reportedly mouthed “I love you” as Brand prepared to leave the dock. He replied, “We’ll be OK.”
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