Mason Greenwood: why prosecution dropped charges against Man Utd player - CPS explains

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has issued a new statement explaining why they have dropped criminal proceedings against Manchester United player Mason Greenwood.

Greenwood, 21, was charged with attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour and assault, following his arrest a year ago. He was due to face trial in November but Greater Manchester police announced today (2 February) the case against him had been dropped.

The Crown Prosecution Service has issued a statement saying that important witnesses had withdrawn and they did not believe they could now secure a conviction at trial.

A CPS spokesperson said: “We have a duty to keep cases under continuous review. 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 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.”

Read what Greater Manchester police and United had to say here.

Greenwood has been suspended by his club since the investigation and it is understood he will not return to training or playing for United immediately.