Mason Greenwood, who plays forward for Manchester United, was acquitted of all accusations related to attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault. The charges against the defendant were withdrawn, as stated by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), due to “the withdrawal of crucial witnesses and new information that came to light.” An inquiry was opened in January 2022 when the football player, who was 21 years old, was suspected of committing offences related to the same woman. However, the court proceeding scheduled for November 27th, 2023, will not go forward.
Manchester United to Determine Next Steps
Greenwood issued a brief statement in response to the announcement, in which he expressed his gratitude to his family, friends, and loved ones for their support and stated that he was “relieved that this matter is finally ended.” Manchester United, who had previously indicated that Greenwood would not return to training or playing while the process was taking place, released a statement acknowledging the decision of the CPS to drop the charges and confirmed that they would be conducting their process before determining what their next steps would be.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) issued a statement explaining that the decision to dismiss the charges had “not been taken lightly.” The report also said that the decision was made due to the withdrawal of critical witnesses and new information that came to light. Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr, who is in charge of public protection for the GMP, mentioned in her report that the investigative team had maintained consistent communication with the legal team and was aware of the considerations that led to the decision to halt the proceedings.
Kerr also appealed to potential victims, reminding them of the GMP’s commitment to investigating claims of abuse against women and girls and encouraging them not to be discouraged from seeking help due to this instance. She stated that the GMP would investigate any complaints of violence against women and girls.
Greenwood’s case received significant media coverage, resulting in Nike suspending and later terminating its sponsorship deal with the player. It was confirmed by Electronic Arts that he has been taken off of active squads for the FIFA 22 video game. The fact that the player has been acquitted of all allegations, on the other hand, may pave the way for him to resume his career in football.
The Bradford-born player came through the Manchester United academy and made his senior debut in March 2019 in a Champions League victory away to Paris Saint-Germain. He debuted his old team in England’s September 2020 Nations League encounter against Iceland.
Conclusion
The decision to clear Mason Greenwood of all charges is a relief for the player, his family, and his fans. The process of investigating the allegations was a long and arduous one, and the media coverage tarnished the player’s reputation. However, the Crown Prosecution Service’s decision to drop the charges means that the player can move forward with his career and continue pursuing his passion for football.
Manchester United will now conduct its process before determining the following steps, but the clearing of charges means that the player could return to the pitch shortly. The Greater Manchester Police’s appeal to potential victims reminds us that violence against women and girls is a severe issue and encourages victims to seek help and support.
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