New Delhi: Thomas Partey has been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault by the Metropolitan Police, following an investigation that began in February 2022 when police first received a report of rape. The 32-year-old, who has been with Arsenal since 2020, saw his contract with the club officially end on Monday. BBC News has contacted the club for comment but there has been no immediate response from Arsenal regarding the charges.
According to the BBC, the Metropolitan Police stated, “The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised the Metropolitan Police Service to charge a man after a file of evidence was submitted by detectives.”
“The Met has issued a charge and requisition to Thomas Partey, 32 (13/06/1992), of Hertfordshire, in connection with the following offences- five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.”
Investigation ongoing, Court appearance scheduled
Det Supt Andy Furphy, who is leading the investigation, emphasised the importance of supporting those who have come forward. Furlhy said, “Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward. We would ask anyone who has been impacted by this case or anyone who has information to speak with our team.”
The charges relate to alleged offences that took place between 2021 and 2022. Reports indicate that Partey faces two counts of rape connected to one woman, three counts related to a second woman, and one count of sexual assault involving a third woman. He is expected to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 5 August.
Partey’s Arsenal career comes to an end
Thomas Partey joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in October 2020 for £45.3 million. During his time in North London, he made 130 Premier League appearances, scoring nine goals. Last season, Partey featured 35 times in the league, netting four goals as Arsenal finished second in the Premier League. He also played 12 matches in the Champions League, helping the Gunners reach the semi-finals before being knocked out by Paris Saint-Germain. He has also represented Ghana at the international level throughout his career.