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Former Arsenal footballer and Ghanian international Thomas Partey has reportedly been charged with five counts of rape. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has officially authorized Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) to charge Partey after the evidence file was submitted. According to the Metropolitan Police, the alleged offences occurred between 2021 and 2022.
The charges concern three women: two counts of rape involving one woman, three counts of rape connected to a second woman, and one count of sexual assault related to a third woman. However, the Ghanaian international has denied all charges, with his lawyer stating that he "welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name."
The investigation that started in February 2022 by detectives under Det Supt Andy Furphy has led to them coming up with the report. However, the priority remains for women coming forward with their claims. "Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward. "We would ask anyone who has been impacted by this case, or anyone who has information, to speak with our team. You can contact detectives about this investigation by emailing [email protected]," Furphy said to BBC.
Criminal proceedings are on, the defendant has all rights to a fair trial: CPS
Earlier, the Crown Prosecution Service authorized to prosecute Thomas Partey accounting to multiple rape after reviewing the evidence file. Jaswant Narwal of the CPS has mentioned that Partey is eligible for a fair trial. "We remind everyone that criminal proceedings are active, and the defendant has the right to a fair trial. We know there will be significant public interest in this announcement, but there must be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings," Narwal mentioned to BBC.
Partey has well placed himself as a defensive linchpin in Arteta’s midfield, making 33 appearances during the 2023 season when Arsenal finished as Premier League runners-up to Manchester City. However, he was limited to just 14 appearances - once again with Arsenal placing second to City - due to a hamstring injury. Throughout his tenure at the club, injuries frequently disrupted his playing time. On the international stage, Mr Partey has earned over 50 caps for Ghana and most recently featured in their World Cup qualifying matches in March.
