Thomas Partey Charged with Rape in London

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Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday to face multiple serious criminal charges relating to allegations made by three women.

The 32-year-old Ghana international is accused of five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. The incidents are alleged to have taken place between April 2021 and June 2022, during his time as a player for the Premier League club.

Partey, dressed in black for the brief hearing, confirmed his name, date of birth and home address. He did not enter any pleas.

Prosecutor Jocelyn Ledward informed the court that two of the rape charges relate to allegations of anal rape involving one complainant during encounters that initially began consensually. The remaining three rape charges relate to a second woman, with two incidents said to have occurred in the UK and one in Spain.

A sixth charge, for sexual assault, concerns a third woman.

Partey was granted bail and is due to appear at the Old Bailey on 2 September. In a previous statement, his legal representative said that Partey denies all charges and intends to defend himself fully in court.

Partey joined Arsenal in 2020 following a £42.5 million (€50 million) transfer from Atlético Madrid. He went on to become a key part of Mikel Arteta’s squad, making 52 appearances in all competitions last season. His contract with Arsenal expired in July.

Although he was arrested in July 2022, his identity was not publicly disclosed at the time. He continued to play for Arsenal while police investigations were ongoing.

Media reports indicate that Partey is in advanced discussions over a free transfer to Spanish club Villarreal. During Tuesday’s court session, Judge Paul Goldspring noted that Partey is preparing to relocate to Spain.

Given the high-profile nature of the case and the seriousness of the allegations, it is likely to draw further public attention in the coming weeks.