Comedian Russell Brand was a ruthless sexual predator, UK prosecutors say

NEW: Russell Brand was a 'ruthless sexual predator', UK prosecutors say, as the comedian faces seven charges including rape and sexual assault against six women. He denies all allegations relating to incidents between 1999 and 2009.

UK prosecutors have called Russell Brand a ruthless sexual predator, in their own words, in open court.

The comedian is facing seven charges, including rape and sexual assault, brought by six different women. The allegations cover a ten year stretch, from 1999 to 2009, the years when Brand was at the height of his fame on British television and radio.

Prosecutors told the court he used that fame and that status against the women who are now accusing him. This courtroom sketch shows Brand as the case was laid out against him. He denies every allegation, all seven charges, and his lawyers will put that denial to a jury.

Whatever the verdict ends up being, the fact of today is stark. One of the biggest British entertainers of his generation is on trial for rape, and six women are waiting to be heard.

This is Angel Manalo, reporting for HIT.