The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) confirmed on Thursday that it had authorised the charges after receiving a file of evidence from investigating officers.
A police spokesperson 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, One count of sexual assault.”
The offences are alleged to have taken place over the span of two years, during which Partey was actively playing in the Premier League and representing Arsenal FC.
As of now, neither Arsenal Football Club nor Partey’s legal team has released an official statement. The case is expected to proceed through the legal system in the coming months, and further updates will follow as the investigation develops.
This news has sent shockwaves through the footballing world, with fans and commentators awaiting further clarification.