02 February 2023 , 15:07
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The Crown Prosecution Service has explained why charges of attempted rape, assault and coercive control against Mason Greenwood have all been dropped.
Manchester United forward Greenwood, 21, was first arrested at his home in January last year.
Greenwood was due to stand trial in November, but on Thursday a statement from Greater Manchester Police confirmed that the CPS had dropped all the charges against him.
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".
A CPS spokesperson said: “We have a duty to keep cases under continuous review.
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“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.
Greenwood was first arrested in January last year (AFP via Getty Images)"In these circumstances, we are under a duty to stop the case. We have explained our decision to all parties.
“We would always encourage any potential victims to come forward and report to police and we will prosecute wherever our legal test is met.”
The CPS do not decide whether or not a person is guilty or innocent, but make independent assessment about whether charges should be presented for the criminal court to consider.
Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr, GMP’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.
Mason Greenwood last played for Manchester United on January 22 last year ((Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images))"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.”