Former Premier League Footballer Arrested on Suspicion of Rape in London Hotel
A former Premier League footballer has been arrested on suspicion of raping a woman at a luxury hotel in London, told the Mirror. The 24-year-old player, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was detained by police at the Corinthia Hotel in Westminster on Wednesday, October 9, after the woman raised the alarm at the hotel reception.
According to The Sun, the woman met the footballer at a bar in Central London before they returned to the five-star hotel, where she alleges he “attacked and raped” her. The footballer was arrested just before 10 a.m. and taken to Charing Cross police station for questioning. Following his arrest, police conducted a forensic examination of the hotel room, which reportedly costs £750 per night, and are also reviewing CCTV footage from the premises.
The footballer is said to deny the allegation of rape and has been bailed until mid-December while further investigations take place. Meanwhile, the woman involved in the case was taken to a Haven rape counselling suite and is receiving support from specialist police officers.
A source told The Sun, “She met the player in a bar and agreed to go back to his hotel, where he had booked into earlier. She claims he then attacked and raped her. The woman went to the front desk at the hotel and was said to have been very distressed. Police were called, and officers arrived and arrested him at the hotel. He was then led out to the amazement of guests and staff.”
The source further added, “He has played in the Premier League and people will recognise him. The allegations against him are very serious.”
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrest, stating, “A 24-year-old man was arrested at 09:53 hrs on Wednesday, October 9, at an address on Whitehall Place, SW1A, following an allegation of rape. He has been bailed until a date in mid-December. A woman is being supported by specially trained officers. The investigation is ongoing, and enquiries are still being made.”
The case has attracted significant attention, and as police continue their investigation, the footballer’s identity remains protected due to legal restrictions surrounding the case.