Arsenal group protest outside Thomas Partey court hearing

Arsenal group, Arsenal Supporters Against Sexual Violence, protested outside Westminster Magistrates’ Court ahead of Thomas Partey hearing.

The former Arsenal midfielder, who left the club when his contract expired this summer, was charged just days after his exit by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.

The Ghanaian’s alleged offences took place between 2021 and 2022, while he was employed by Arsenal.

The charges relate to incidents involving three women, with two counts of rape alleged against one woman, three counts against a second woman, and one count of sexual assault against a third woman. Partey’s lawyer Jenny Wiltshire stated that he “denies all the charges against him” and “welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name”.

During the hearing, which lasted around 15 minutes, Partey was granted bail, and he spoke to confirm his name and confirmed he understood his bail conditions. His bail conditions state he cannot contact any of the three women and must notify police of any permanent changes of address or international travel, according to BBC News.

The case has been adjourned until 2 September when Partey is due to appear at the Old Bailey.

Arsenal Supporters Against Sexual Violence, an unofficial supporters group, gathered outside the court before the hearing to protest the club’s alleged actions.

Before Partey’s hearing, a banner was displayed reading, ‘‘Arsenal said: ‘We do the right thing.’ Then did nothing.’

Following the midfielder being charged, the North London club explained: “The player’s contract ended on June 30. Due to ongoing legal proceedings the club is unable to comment on the case.”

The 32 year-old is reportedly set to sign for Spanish club, Villarreal, and as bail conditions were discussed in court, Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring said: “I understand he’s no longer employed in this country and playing in Spain now”, per Sky News.