Thomas Partey Granted Bail as Sexual Offence Trial Begins in London

Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been granted conditional bail following his appearance at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, where he faces multiple charges of rape and sexual assault.

The 32-year-old Ghanaian international is charged with five counts of rape involving two women and one count of sexual assault against a third. Prosecutors told the court that one alleged incident took place while Partey was on holiday in Spain, and another reportedly occurred at his UK residence in February 2022.

Partey appeared in court on Monday, standing silently as the charges were read out. His lawyer, Emma Fenn, did not oppose the transfer of the case to the Crown Court.

Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring confirmed that all six charges would be sent to the Crown Court at the Old Bailey, noting: “You face six charges, of which five must be heard in the Crown Court. The sixth charge can be sent if it is a related offence.”

Partey was granted bail under strict conditions. He must not contact the complainants, must inform police of any address change or extended stay elsewhere, and must report any plans to travel abroad.

Goldspring warned: “If you breach any of these conditions, you will be arrested and likely remanded in custody.”

According to the Metropolitan Police, the initial report was made in February 2022. Charges were formally brought in June 2025, just four days after Partey’s departure from Arsenal upon the expiration of his contract.

The charges relate to two counts of rape involving one woman, three counts involving another, and one charge of sexual assault involving a third woman.

Partey, who joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in 2020, played 35 matches during the 2024/25 season, helping the club to a second-place Premier League finish and a Champions League semi-final appearance. He has since reportedly signed with Spanish side Villarreal.

His legal team has stated that the player “welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”

Partey is scheduled to appear next at the Old Bailey on September 2.