Former Manchester United footballer Ryan Giggs will no longer face a retrial for charges of domestic violence this month as the prosecution has decided to withdraw from the case. Giggs, renowned as one of the greatest contemporary British football players, was initially set to go on trial for the second time on July 31. The allegations against him included claims of controlling or coercive behavior towards his former girlfriend, Kate Greville, between August 2017 and November 2020. Additionally, Giggs faced accusations of assaulting Greville and her sister, Emma, during an argument at his residence near Manchester in November 2020. The former player denied all charges and had already undergone a month-long trial, which concluded in August with the jury failing to reach a verdict.
Just two weeks before the retrial was scheduled to commence, prosecutor Peter Wright informed the Manchester Crown Court on Tuesday that the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) would no longer pursue the case. This decision was made due to Kate Greville’s indication of unwillingness to provide evidence, as testifying in the previous trial had taken a toll on her and her sister. Wright emphasized that this choice was not taken lightly. Ryan Giggs was not present in court during this announcement.
Wright further explained that there was no realistic chance of securing a conviction for the charge of coercive and controlling behavior. Additionally, the prosecution deemed it no longer in the public interest to proceed with the charges of assault against Greville and her sister. Consequently, Judge Hilary Manley formally entered not guilty verdicts for these counts.
Chris Daw, Giggs’ defense attorney, expressed his client’s profound relief that the prosecution had finally come to an end after nearly three years of fighting to clear his name. Daw asserted Giggs’ innocence, stating that numerous falsehoods had been presented about him throughout the trial.
During his illustrious 23-year career at Manchester United, Ryan Giggs achieved remarkable success, securing 13 Premier League titles, two Champions League trophies, and amassing an impressive 963 appearances. In June of last year, he resigned as the coach of the Wales national team, citing a desire not to jeopardize preparations for the World Cup held in November and December in Qatar. He had been on leave since November 2021.
Leave a Reply