Thomas Partey faces multiple rape and sexual assault charges, set to appear in court

Thomas Partey, the former Arsenal midfielder, has been formally charged with several serious sexual offences by the Metropolitan Police. The 32-year-old, who recently left Arsenal after five years at the club following the expiration of his contract, now stands accused of multiple counts of rape alongside a sexual assault charge.

Charges and court appearance

According to an official statement from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), Partey faces five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. These charges stem from alleged incidents involving three different women, with two rape counts linked to one woman, three counts related to a second, and the single sexual assault charge associated with a third. The alleged offences reportedly occurred between 2021 and 2022.

Partey is scheduled to appear before Westminster Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, 5 August. The CPS confirmed their authorization of the charges after a thorough review of the evidence gathered by the Metropolitan Police.

Police investigation and statements

The investigation, led by Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, began in 2022. Furphy emphasized the importance of supporting the victims involved in the case, stating,

Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward.

He also encouraged anyone with information or who has been affected to contact the police via CIT@met.police.uk.

Jaswant Narwal of the Crown Prosecution Service told The Telegraph:

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 also underscored the importance of a fair trial, reminding the public that “criminal proceedings are active and the defendant has the right to a fair trial,” while urging media and individuals to refrain from any reporting or online commentary that could prejudice the case.

Partey’s football career highlights

Thomas Partey began his professional football journey with Atletico Madrid, where he made a significant impact after loan spells at Mallorca and Almeria. During his tenure in Spain, he secured major honors including La Liga, the Europa League, and the UEFA Super Cup.

In 2020, Arsenal signed Partey, where he made 167 appearances and scored nine goals, also contributing to Arsenal’s 2023 Community Shield victory. On the international stage, Partey has represented Ghana 53 times.