Former Arsenal midfielder and Ghana Black Stars player Thomas Partey has been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, according to a statement issued by the Metropolitan Police.
The alleged offences involve three women and are reported to have occurred between 2021 and 2022. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) authorised the charges following an investigation led by the Met Police, which began in February 2022 after an initial report of rape was received.
In a detailed breakdown of the charges:
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Two counts of rape relate to one woman,
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Three counts of rape concern a second woman,
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One count of sexual assault involves a third woman.
A formal charge and requisition have been issued to Mr. Thomas Partey, 32, of Hertfordshire. He is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 5 August.
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, who is overseeing the investigation, emphasized the importance of supporting the women involved. “Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward,” he stated. He also encouraged anyone affected by this case or anyone with relevant information to contact the investigative team via CIT@met.police.uk.
Mr. Partey’s contract with Arsenal officially ended on Monday, concluding his stint with the Premier League club that began in 2020. BBC News has contacted Arsenal for comment on the matter.
Support services are available through the independent charity Rape Crisis, which operates a 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line.
Editors, media outlets, and social media users are reminded to report on this case responsibly, in accordance with legal guidelines, including those set out by the Attorney General’s Office and the Contempt of Court Act 1981, to avoid prejudicing ongoing legal proceedings.
Source: BBC
