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Former Arsenal and Ghana international footballer Thomas Partey has been formally charged with multiple counts of rape and sexual assault following a long-running investigation by the Metropolitan Police Service.
The charges include five counts of rape involving two women and one count of sexual assault involving a third woman. According to police, the alleged incidents took place between 2021 and 2022. The Met stated that their investigation began in February 2022 after receiving an initial report of rape.
The 32-year-old, who recently left Arsenal after his contract expired on June 30, is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5.
Partey's legal representative, Jenny Wiltshire, emphasized his innocence in a statement issued to the Press Association, saying: "Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him. He has fully cooperated with the police and CPS throughout their three-year investigation. He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name. Given that there are now ongoing legal proceedings, my client is unable to comment further."
The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed the charges and outlined the process that led to the decision.
“The Crown Prosecution Service has today authorised the prosecution of Thomas Partey for multiple counts of rape – after carefully reviewing a comprehensive file of evidence,” said Jaswant Narwal, chief crown prosecutor for CPS London North.
“Our prosecutors have worked closely with officers in the Metropolitan Police who have carried out the investigation, to review the evidence and advise on the appropriate charges. 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 it is absolutely vital that there is no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”
Partey, who resides in Hertfordshire, had been with Arsenal since 2020 after completing a £45 million move from Atlético Madrid. During his time in North London, Partey made 130 appearances for the club, contributing to their strong league performances, including three consecutive second-place finishes in the Premier League.
Arsenal released a brief statement in light of the developments: "The player's contract ended on 30 June. Due to ongoing legal proceedings the club is unable to comment on the case."
Partey has earned 53 international caps for Ghana, scoring 15 goals, and remains a free agent following the expiration of his contract with Arsenal earlier this week.
Featured Image Credit: Instagram / @thomaspartey5
