Man City’s Benjamin Mendy ‘looks forward to clearing his name’ as he faces retrial in months over rape charge
MANCHESTER City’s Benjamin Mendy “looks forward” to clearing his name as he faces a retrial this summer.
In a statement through his lawyer, the footballer, 28, today said he is “delighted” to have been cleared of sex attacks on four women.
Mendy‘s lawyer Jenny Wiltshire said he is now looking to “rebuild his life”.
She said: “My client Benjamin Mendy would like to thank the members of the jury for their dedication and commitment.
“He also thanks everyone who supported him, and particularly the witnesses who gave evidence on his behalf in the glare of such intense publicity.
“He looks forward to clearing his name in relation to the other two charges so he can start rebuilding his life.
“Until these proceedings have concluded neither I, nor my client, are able to comment further.”
It comes after the French international was today found not guilty of six rapes and one sexual assault against four women.
Jurors could not reach verdicts on one count of rape and one of attempted rape against another alleged victims.
Judge Everett brought jurors back into court and asked if they would reach further verdicts if given more time.
The foreman of the jury replied: “No. We are at a point now where we can’t agree.”
Judge Everett told them: “It is not unusual that jurors don’t reach verdicts on some counts. You have to be true to your duty.”
Mendy, who remains in custody, will now face a pre-trial on January 27 before a three-week trial starts on June 26.
Man City has since released a statement.
The club said: “Manchester City FC notes the verdict from Chester Crown Court today, where a jury has found Benjamin Mendy not guilty of seven charges.
“The jury is hung on two charges and the trial is now over.
“Given there are open matters related to this case, the club is not in a position to comment further at this time.”