London, Nov. 9 -- Former actor and comedian Russell Brand has been sentenced to 10 years and six months in prison for rape and sexual assault.

During the hearing on Monday at London's Southwark Crown Court, Judge Joel Bennathan delivered the sentence, describing Brand as a "sexual predator" and saying that his fame protected him until 2023, when Channel 4 and The Times of London published allegations about his conduct, reported Deadline.

The judge also pointed out Russell Brand's "staggering arrogance" in the way he treated women, further calling out his associates for indulging his "dreadful behaviour."

On the other hand, Brand consistently maintained his innocence, as he told the jury, "Consent is fundamental, essential, necessary, a...