Manchester United's Mason Greenwood charged with attempted rape
Footballer Mason Greenwood has been charged with rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
The 21-year-old footballer was previously arrested on suspicion of rape and assault in January of this year.
Speaking about the charges Janet Potter, the deputy chief crown prosecutor for CPS North West, said: “The Crown Prosecution Service has today authorised Greater Manchester Police to charge Mason Greenwood, 21, with attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
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“All three counts relate to the same complainant.
“Specialist rape prosecutors from CPS North West’s complex casework unit authorised the charges following a review of a file of evidence received from Greater Manchester Police.
“The defendant’s first court appearance will take place on October 17 at Greater Manchester Magistrates’ Court.“The Crown Prosecution Service reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against the defendant are active and that he has a right to a fair trial.
“It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice those proceedings.”
Enquiries into the case have been ongoing for some time and immediately after Greenwood's arrest in January, he was suspended by Manchester United until further notice, and was also removed from the latest FIFA video game at the time.
All of his merch was also removed from the United club shop, with the club informing fans who had purchased shirts bearing his name and number that they could request a free exchange.
"As a United Direct customer we are writing to you regarding your previous purchase of a Manchester United shirt personalised with Greenwood, given the current circumstances relating to Mason Greenwood.
"We can confirm that United Direct and adidas customers who purchased a Manchester United shirt that was personalised with Greenwood's name and number, have the opportunity to exchange it for this season's home shirt personalised with another player's name without charge," they explained.
He was then dropped by his sponsor Nike who said about their decision: "We are deeply concerned by the disturbing allegations and will continue to closely monitor the situation."
However, they later added: "Mason Greenwood is no longer a Nike athlete.”
The case is currently ongoing with Greenwood's first court appearance expected to take place on Monday, 17 October.
Topics: News
Shola Lee