Former Arsenal Midfielder Thomas Partey Charged with Multiple Counts of Rape

Former Arsenal Star Thomas Partey Faces Rape Charges

Thomas Partey, the former Arsenal midfielder, has been formally charged by the Metropolitan Police Service with multiple counts of serious offenses, including five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.

According to the police report, the alleged offenses occurred between 2021 and 2022. These charges involve two counts of rape against one woman, three counts of rape against a second woman, and one count of sexual assault against a third woman.

The investigation was initiated in February 2022, following the initial report of rape received by the police force, which oversees the 32 boroughs of Greater London.

The 32-year-old is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on August 5.

Jenny Wiltshire, Partey's legal representative, has stated to Britain's Press Association that her client "denies all the charges against him" and "welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name."

Arsenal released a statement to ESPN confirming that "The player's contract ended on 30 June. Due to ongoing legal proceedings the club is unable to comment on the case."

Partey joined Arsenal in 2020 from Atlético Madrid for a reported £45 million ($61.42m). He has been a free agent since his contract with Arsenal concluded on Monday.

Detective superintendent Andy Furphy, who is leading the investigation, stated, "Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward," adding, in a statement, that, "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]."

Last season, the Ghana international played in 35 Premier League matches, scoring four goals, as the north London club finished second in the Premier League.

Furthermore, he participated in 12 matches during Arsenal's journey to the Champions League semifinals, where they were defeated by Paris Saint-Germain.

Jaswant Narwal, the chief crown prosecutor for CPS London north, commented, "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 further stated, "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."

Information from The Associated Press contributed to this report.