Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been granted conditional release on bail following a sexual assault and rape trial.
The 32-year-old Ghanaian athlete is charged with five counts of violent assault against two women, as well as allegations of harassment against a third victim.
The alleged offences relate to the period 2021-2022, when the footballer played for the London club.
During the hearing at Westminster Magistrates' Court, Partey stood in the courtroom with his hands folded behind his back. The athlete was wearing a black jumper with a button at the neck.
The conditions of release require the player to avoid any contact with the three victims, as well as the obligation to inform the police if he changes his place of residence or plans to travel abroad.
The hearing took place against the backdrop of information about the footballer’s possible transfer to the Spanish club Villarreal.
In approving bail conditions, Judge Paul Goldspring said: “I am aware that he is no longer working in the UK and is now performing in Spain.”
The next trial in the case is scheduled for September 2 at the Old Bailey.
The charges came four days after the player's contract with Arsenal ended at the end of June.
According to the Metropolitan Police, the first report of suspected rape was received in February 2022.
Partey's lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, previously said her client “categorically denies all the alleged conduct” and stressed his willingness to “prove his innocence”.
For those affected by the issues raised in this publication, the National Sexual Assault Helpline is available on 1800-77 8888. Further information is available via text messaging, webchat at drcc.ie/services/helpline/ or the Rape Crisis Help website.
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
