Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been formally charged by the Metropolitan Police with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. Authorities indicated that the alleged incidents took place between 2021 and 2022. The police investigation into the footballer began in February 2022, following the initial report of rape.
The charges specify three counts of rape involving one woman, two counts involving a second woman, and an additional charge of sexual assault related to a third woman. Partey`s legal representative stated on Friday that he refutes all charges brought against him and `welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name`.
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, who is leading the investigation team, emphasized, `Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward.` He added, `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].`
Partey`s association with Arsenal, which spanned five years, concluded on Tuesday with the expiration of his contract. He had joined the club from Atletico Madrid in October 2020.
Partey is scheduled to appear before Westminster Magistrates` Court on Tuesday, August 5. His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, issued a statement confirming, `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.`
Jaswant Narwal, speaking on behalf of the Crown Prosecution Service, stated, `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. 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.`
Narwal issued a reminder, `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, a Ghanaian international with 53 caps for his country, made 167 appearances for Arsenal. The club acquired him from Atletico Madrid by activating a $60 million release clause in his contract. During his time at Atletico Madrid, he won the Europa League and La Liga. Arsenal was contacted for comment regarding the charges.
