Former Arsenal Footballer Thomas Partey Charged with Rape and Sexual Assault

London, July 4, 2025 — Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, the Metropolitan Police and Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) confirmed today. The charges, which involve three women, stem from alleged incidents between 2021 and 2022, following a nearly three-year investigation that began in February 2022 after police received an initial report of rape.

The 32-year-old Ghanaian international, whose contract with Arsenal expired in June 2025, faces two counts of rape related to one woman, three counts related to a second woman, and one count of sexual assault involving a third woman. Partey, a resident of Hertfordshire, is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5, 2025, to face the charges formally.

Investigation and Charges

The Metropolitan Police launched their investigation in February 2022 after receiving a report of rape. Detectives compiled a comprehensive file of evidence, which was reviewed by the CPS before authorizing the charges. Jaswant Narwal, chief crown prosecutor for CPS London North, stated, “The Crown Prosecution Service has today authorised the prosecution of Thomas Partey for multiple counts of rape after carefully reviewing a comprehensive file of evidence. Our prosecutors have worked closely with officers in the Metropolitan Police to advise on the appropriate charges.”

Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, leading the investigation, emphasized the police’s commitment to supporting the victims, saying, “Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward.” The Metropolitan Police also noted that support is available through the independent charity Rape Crisis via their 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line.

Partey’s Response

Partey’s lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire of Hickman and Rose, issued a statement denying the allegations: “Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him. He has fully cooperated with the police and CPS throughout their three-year investigation and now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.” Due to ongoing legal proceedings, Partey is unable to comment further, Wiltshire added.

Football Career and Context

Thomas Partey joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in October 2020 for a reported transfer fee of £45.3 million (approximately $62 million). A key figure in Arsenal’s midfield, he made over 100 appearances for the club and represented Ghana in more than 50 international matches, including World Cup qualifiers in March 2025. His contract with Arsenal was not renewed upon its expiration in June 2025, making him a free agent at the time of the charges.

The timing of the charges, announced just days after Partey’s departure from Arsenal, has sparked significant discussion. Some reports suggest that the investigation was an open secret within football circles, with media outlets unable to name Partey until formal charges were filed due to legal restrictions in the UK.

Legal Implications

Under UK law, rape carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, though sentences vary based on factors such as the severity of the offense and whether the defendant pleads guilty. The case is expected to progress to a Crown Court hearing given the serious nature of the charges, though charges could be dropped if new evidence emerges or witnesses withdraw, as seen in other high-profile cases.

Public and Club Reaction

The charges have drawn attention from fans and media alike, with some expressing frustration that Partey continued to play for Arsenal during the investigation. The club has not issued an official statement, though Newsweek reported reaching out to Arsenal, the Football Association, and the Premier League for comment. The BBC and other outlets have also sought responses from relevant parties.

Partey’s court appearance on August 5 will mark the next step in this high-profile case, which continues to unfold amid significant public and media scrutiny.

Sources: BBC News, CBS Sports, ESPN, Metropolitan Police, Sky News