The Manchester United forward’s attempted rape, assault, and coercive control charges were dropped on Thursday, a year after he was arrested.
The Crown Prosecution Service has explained why Mason Greenwood’s charges of attempted rape, assault, and coercive control were all dropped.
Greenwood, 21, of Manchester United, was arrested for the first time at his home in January of last year.
Greenwood was scheduled to stand trial in November, but the CPS dropped all charges against him on Thursday, according to a statement from Greater Manchester Police.
The CPS said that they decided to discontinue the prosecution in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors, with the case placed under “continuous review”.
“We have a duty to keep cases under continuous review,” a CPS spokesperson said.
“In this case, a combination of the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material that came to light meant there was no longer a realistic prospect of conviction.
“In these circumstances, we have a duty to halt the case. We have informed all parties of our decision.
“We would always encourage any potential victims to come forward and report to police, and we will prosecute wherever our legal test is met,” says the prosecutor.
The CPS does not decide whether a person is guilty or innocent, but rather makes an independent decision about whether charges should be brought before a criminal court.
“The investigation team has remained in regular contact with the legal team, providing any updates of note, and so understand the rationale for the discontinuation of proceedings at this stage, and that this decision has not been taken lightly,” said Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr, GMP’s Head of Public Protection.
“Despite the media and public interest in this case, we have decided not to comment further.
“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 utilizing tools, available via the criminal justice system, to keep people safe and care for victims.
“If you believe you are or may be a victim, please do not let this case discourage you from seeking help.”
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