Thomas Partey, Ex-Arsenal Star, Faces Rape and Sexual Assault Charges in London

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

According to police reports, the alleged incidents occurred between 2021 and 2022. The accusations 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 Metropolitan Police Service, responsible for policing the 32 boroughs of Greater London, confirmed that the investigation began in February 2022 following an initial rape report.

Partey, 32, is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on August 5.

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

Arsenal released a statement to ESPN, noting: "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 in a £45 million ($61.42m) transfer from Atlético Madrid. He became a free agent after his contract with Arsenal concluded.

Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, who is leading the investigation, emphasized the importance of supporting the alleged victims. "Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward," he stated. He urged anyone impacted by the case or possessing relevant information to contact the investigation team via email at [email protected].

Last season, the Ghanaian international participated in 35 Premier League matches, scoring four goals as Arsenal finished second in the league.

Partey also played in 12 matches during Arsenal's Champions League campaign, which ended in the semi-finals after a defeat against 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." She added that prosecutors collaborated closely with the Metropolitan Police officers throughout the investigation, reviewing evidence and advising on appropriate charges.

Narwal stressed the importance of a fair trial and cautioned against any online activity that could prejudice the proceedings. "We remind everyone that criminal proceedings are active, and the defendant has the right to a fair trial...it is absolutely vital that there is no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings."