Lots of things to say here:

1) I agree with your article. Common sense (which is what you are arguing for here) really isn't so common anymore. I despise mobs, and if someone has done something criminal, they should face the legal consequences, not trial by social media inquisition. I loathe that more than I have the ability to express. The only correct response to this situation is "I don't know" because we weren't there.

2) Regarding Russell Brand specifically: If he is guilty of a crime, he should be prosecuted. If he is not, he should not be prosecuted. What should not be happening is trial by social media and a witchhunt (again, see point 1). The Cliff Richard example you give is an excellent case in point as to why.

3) Even if Russell Brand is guilty, that does not mean some of what he says these days (concerning the World Economic Forum for instance) should be disregarded. What is going on in the WEF is deeply concerning, and Brand's guilt or innocence is beside the point. The timing of these allegations, and the fact that Brand is pointing the finger at some very powerful, disturbingly authoritarian types is at least worth considering. It may be a coincidence, it may not. But it is vital to keep an open mind.