Keypoints:
- Two new rape charges linked to 2020
- Total allegations now involve four women
- First hearing scheduled for March 13
FORMER Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been charged with two further counts of rape, widening the criminal case against him to include allegations from four separate women.
The 32-year-old Ghana international had already pleaded not guilty to five counts of rape involving two women and one count of sexual assault relating to a third complainant. The latest charges relate to a different alleged victim, according to the Metropolitan Police.
New allegations dating back to 2020
Police confirmed that the two additional counts concern alleged offences said to have taken place in 2020. The claims were first reported to officers in August last year and triggered a renewed investigation.
Following that inquiry, prosecutors authorised the fresh charges. Partey is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on March 13 for an initial hearing in connection with the new allegations.
The development significantly broadens a case that first emerged more than three years ago.
Legal process continues
Partey previously entered not guilty pleas to the original charges at Southwark Crown Court in September. At that hearing, he was granted conditional bail.
The earlier allegations relate to reported incidents said to have occurred between 2021 and 2022, during his time playing for Arsenal in the Premier League.
Detectives began investigating in February 2022 after receiving an initial report of rape. He was formally charged last year, four days after his contract with Arsenal expired at the end of June.
A trial concerning the original counts is scheduled to begin on November 2 before a High Court judge.
Career developments amid proceedings
Since leaving Arsenal, Partey has continued his professional career abroad. He signed a one-year deal with Spanish side Villarreal CF in the summer transfer window. The signing was confirmed after he had already been charged in relation to the earlier allegations.
Partey joined Arsenal from Atlético Madrid in October 2020 in a £45.3m move. He went on to make 130 Premier League appearances under manager Mikel Arteta.
The expanding case has drawn attention in both the United Kingdom and Ghana, where Partey remains a prominent figure due to his international football career.
Defence statement
His solicitor, Jenny Wiltshire, has previously said her client ‘denies all the charges against him’ and welcomed ‘the opportunity to finally clear his name’.
The Metropolitan Police said their investigation remains ongoing.
As with all criminal proceedings, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
