Former Manchester City footballer Benjamin Mendy has been acquitted of charges of rape and attempted rape, bringing an end to a lengthy legal process.
Mendy, 28, had been accused of attacking a 24-year-old woman at his luxurious residence in Cheshire back in October 2020.
Additionally, he faced allegations of attempting to rape another woman, aged 29, who claimed that he had also subjected her to unwanted advances at his home two years prior.
This recent verdict follows Mendy’s previous trial in January, where he was acquitted of six rape charges and one count of sexual assault involving four young women or teenagers. However, the jury was unable to reach a consensus on two counts of rape and attempted rape, leading to a retrial. After three weeks of legal proceedings at Chester Crown Court, the jury, consisting of six men and six women, deliberated for approximately three hours and 15 minutes before delivering the not guilty verdicts.
Judge Steven Everett officially cleared Mendy of all charges, stating, “Mr. Mendy can be discharged from the dock.” The footballer, whose contract with Manchester City recently expired, had previously faced intense media scrutiny and public attention throughout the trial.
Despite the emotionally charged circumstances, Mendy remained composed until the verdict was announced, at which point he broke down in tears.
During the trial, Mendy testified that he had engaged in sexual encounters with over 10,000 women.
The prosecuting attorney, Benjamin Aina KC, alleged that Mendy had taken advantage of female guests during parties at his residence on multiple occasions, suggesting that his wealth and celebrity status had contributed to a sense of entitlement where he was unaccustomed to facing refusal.
Benjamin Mendy trial: Jury doesn’t have to AGREE on unanimous verdict
With the conclusion of this trial, Mendy’s legal battles have come to an end. The footballer can now move forward, leaving behind the allegations that have surrounded him for some time.
