Manchester United footballer Mason Greenwood has had tried rape and assault prices towards him dropped.
The Crown Prosecution Service stated the withdrawal of key witnesses and new materials coming to gentle have been elements in its determination to cease the case towards the 21-year-old.
Greater Manchester Police stated it was “only fair” that they introduced that Greenwood would not face legal proceedings given the extraordinary curiosity within the case.
The striker had confronted one rely of tried rape, one rely of controlling and coercive behaviour and one rely of assault occasioning precise bodily hurt, all towards the identical complainant.
A CPS spokesperson stated the withdrawal of key witnesses and the brand new materials “meant there was no longer a realistic prospect of conviction”.
It stated in these circumstances it had an obligation to cease the case and had defined its determination to all events.
“We would always encourage any potential victims to come forward and report to police and we will prosecute wherever our legal test is met,” it added.
In a press release launched on Thursday, Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr, the drive’s head of public safety, stated it understood the rationale for the discontinuation of proceedings at this stage, and that “this decision has not been taken lightly”.
Mr Kerr stated: “I would, however, like to use this opportunity to reiterate GMP’s commitment to investigating allegations of violence against women and girls and supporting those affected, regardless of their circumstances, throughout what can be a hard and upsetting time for them. An ever-increasing number of officers are receiving specialist training and the force is more consistently utilising tools, available via the criminal justice system, to keep people safe and care for victims.
“If you feel you are or might be a victim, please don’t let this case put you off asking for help.”
A call has been made to discontinue prosecution in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors.
Greenwood was first held in January 2022 over the allegations after pictures and movies have been posted on-line.
Manchester United footballer Mason Greenwood had prices towards him dropped after new data got here to gentle
(PA Wire)
He was bailed however was arrested in October for an alleged breach of situations.
Within hours of the allegations surfacing on-line initially of the 12 months, the ahead – who has made one look for England – was suspended from taking part in or coaching with the Old Trafford membership.
Nike suspended and later terminated its sponsorship cope with Greenwood whereas Electronic Arts confirmed he had been faraway from lively squads on its Fifa 22 recreation.
