Brand Told Guest He Might Be ‘Going Away for a Long Time’

TMZ reported on November 10 that Brand invited friends, relatives, people from his church and representatives of a local recovery organization to the gathering. His wife, Laura Gallacher, and their children were among those present. Photographs obtained by the outlet showed Brand smiling, embracing guests and posing for pictures.

The source said the event was not formally billed as a farewell, but took on that atmosphere as Brand prepared to leave Florida for trial in London. He faced sexual-offense allegations, which he denied. According to the source, Brand did not appear openly fearful or anxious and continued mingling with attendees.

Guests reportedly spent time praying, and Brand spoke about his faith, saying he was trusting God before the trial. People associated with Path of Grace, a Florida nonprofit supporting women with drug and alcohol addiction, also attended. Brand has spoken publicly about his own history of addiction and recovery.

On November 5, Brand was convicted of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault involving four women. He was acquitted of two other rape charges and one count of attempted indecent assault. The Crown Prosecution Service said the offenses took place between 2004 and 2009.

At Southwark Crown Court on November 9, Brand was sentenced to 10 years and six months in prison. Judge Joel Bennathan called him a sexual predator who used his fame to take advantage of women. Brand must serve two-thirds of his sentence in custody before release on license.