Thomas Partey, a former Arsenal midfielder, has been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault involving three women. These violations stretch across incidents that allegedly took place from 2021 to 2022. Partey had previously categorically denied all charges against him.
The Metropolitan Police said they have charged people after an extensive investigation. This investigation was launched in February 2022 after they received a tip-off from a first report of rape. Though Partey was originally arrested in July 2022, his name was not released until now. The police stated, “The charges follow an investigation by detectives, which commenced in February 2022 after police first received a report of rape.”
The charges indicate that one woman is connected to two different counts of felony rape. Meanwhile, a second woman is arrested on three felony counts of the crime. On top of this, one count of sexual assault involves a third woman.
As a senior footballer, Partey made his professional debut for Atlético Madrid in 2013 and signed with Arsenal in 2020 for a club-record fee of £45 million. He was increasingly important on the field for the team, making 52 appearances in all competitions during the most recent campaign. His contract with Arsenal ran out on June 30, and as such, he left the club. An Arsenal spokesperson commented, “The player’s contract ended on June 30. Due to ongoing legal proceedings, the club is unable to comment on the case.”
Partey is expected to appear at London’s Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5 to defend the charges. His counsel, Jenny Wiltshire of Hickman and Rose, noted the extent of Partey’s cooperation with the investigation which is still active. She stated, “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.”
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy highlighted the importance of supporting the women involved in this case, asserting, “Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward.”
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