CNN
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Charges of attempted rape and assault against Manchester United footballer Mason Greenwood had been dropped on Thursday as a result of withdrawal of key witnesses, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) introduced. A cost of controlling and coercive habits was additionally dropped, in keeping with the CPS.
A spokesperson within the CPS assertion stated, “In this case a mix of the withdrawal of key witnesses and new materials that got here to mild meant there was not a practical prospect of conviction. In these circumstances, we’re underneath an obligation to cease the case. We have defined our 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.”
CNN reached out to Greenwood’s authorized illustration for remark however didn’t instantly hear again. According to The Guardian, Greenwood denied the charges of attempted rape.
A Manchester United assertion launched Thursday stated, “Manchester United notes the choice of the Crown Prosecution Service that every one charges against Mason Greenwood have been dropped.
“The club will now conduct its own process before determining next steps. We will not make any further comment until that process is complete.”
Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr, Greater Manchester Police’s (GMP) head of public safety, stated in a press release the choice to drop charges was not “taken lightly” and reiterated “GMP’s commitment to investigating allegations of violence against women and girls.”
“If you feel you are or might be a victim, please don’t let this case put you off asking for help,” Kerr stated.
Greenwood was charged with attempted rape, controlling and coercive habits, and part 47 assault of a lady in October 2022.
Greenwood was arrested in January 2022 following the emergence of movies and pictures on social media. The 21-year-old, who has performed as soon as for England, was suspended by Manchester United the identical month and has not performed for the membership since. Nike additionally suspended its relationship with Greenwood.