Manchester United star Mason Greenwood is no longer the subject of a police investigation, officers have confirmed.
Officers from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have confirmed that criminal proceedings against the 21-year-old forward have been discontinued, the Mirror reports. Last February, he was charged with a number of offences said to have occurred against a woman the month before.
He faced a count of attempted rape, a count of assault and a count of repeatedly engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour. Greenwood had also been suspended by Manchester United after news of the allegations first surfaced, and was due to stand trial this coming November.
He had also been re-arrested in October for a breach of his bail conditions. GMP says that there was a "rationale" for discontinuing proceedings, but has declined to provide further details.
The PA news agency reports that the Crown Prosecution Service opted to cease proceedings because of the withdrawal of key witnesses, and new material coming to light. Greater Manchester Police said it was "only fair" that they announce that that Greenwood would no longer face criminal proceedings.
Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr, the force's head of public protection, said: "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. Despite the media and public’s interest in this case, we have decided not to comment on it in any further detail.
"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 utilising tools, available via the criminal justice system, to keep people safe and care for victims. If you feel you are or might be a victim, please don’t let this case put you off asking for help.”
Greenwood said in a statement released on his behalf: "I am relieved that this matter is now over and I would like to thank my family, loved ones and friends for their support. There will be no further comment at this time."
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