Ex-Arsenal Star Thomas Partey Charged with Multiple Counts of Rape

Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, according to the Metropolitan Police and Crown Prosecution Service.

The alleged offences are reported to have taken place between 2021 and 2022 and involve three women:

• Two counts of rape relate to one woman.
• Three counts of rape concern a second woman.
• One count of sexual assault is linked to a third woman.

The 32-year-old Ghanaian international, whose contract with Arsenal expired on Monday, denies all charges. His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, stated that Partey “welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name” and has fully cooperated with the police and prosecutors throughout the three-year investigation. Due to ongoing legal proceedings, no further comment will be made at this time.

Investigation and Legal Proceedings

• The Metropolitan Police began their investigation in February 2022 after receiving an initial report of rape.
• Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, leading the investigation, emphasized the priority of supporting the women who have come forward and encouraged anyone affected or with information to contact the police.
• Partey, of Hertfordshire, is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 5 August.

Career Overview

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• Partey joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in 2020 for a reported £45 million.
• He made 167 appearances for the Gunners, scoring nine goals and providing seven assists across all competitions.
• Last season, he played 52 matches, scored four goals, and was instrumental in Arsenal’s Champions League run to the semi-finals.
• Partey has also earned over 50 caps for Ghana’s national team, most recently featuring in World Cup qualifiers in March.

Club Status

• Partey’s contract with Arsenal ended this week after five years at the club, following unsuccessful negotiations for a new deal.
• Arsenal, the Football Association, and the Premier League have been contacted for comment but have yet to respond.

Support and Legal Reminder

• Authorities remind the public that criminal proceedings are active and that the defendant is entitled to a fair trial.
• Victims of sexual offences are entitled to lifelong anonymity under the law.

Anyone affected by this case or with relevant information is encouraged to contact the Metropolitan Police’s investigation team at CIT@met.police.uk.