Mason Greenwood of Manchester United was the subject of criminal charges, but those charges have been dismissed, according to a new announcement from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
Following his arrest a year ago, Greenwood, 21, was charged with attempted rape, controlling and coercive behavior, and assault. The Greater Manchester Police confirmed today (2 February) that the case against him has been dismissed. He was scheduled to go on trial in November.
In a statement, the Crown Prosecution Service stated that crucial witnesses had left the case and they no longer believed they could obtain a conviction at trial.
We must continue to review cases, according to a CPS representative. In this instance, there was no longer a realistic chance of conviction due to the withdrawal of important witnesses and newly discovered evidence. We have a responsibility to stop the case in these circumstances.
All parties have been informed of our choice. We constantly urge any prospective victims to come forward and contact the police, and we will file charges whenever our legal requirements are completed.
Since the probe, Greenwood has been suspended by his club. United has been contacted for a statement.