Ryan Giggs: CPS statement on stopping the case
A CPS spokesperson said: “At all stages we keep cases under careful review, to ensure our legal test is met. This means there must be a realistic prospect of conviction based upon the available evidence and a prosecution is in the public interest.
“Following a recent change in circumstances in this case we have determined our legal test is no longer met.
“We have determined there is no longer sufficient evidence available to proceed in respect of the controlling or coercive behaviour charge and that it is no longer in the public interest to prosecute the remaining assault charges.
“This decision was made following detailed discussions with Greater Manchester Police and consultation with the complainants.
“It is not the function of the CPS to decide whether a person is guilty of a criminal offence, but to make fair, independent and objective assessments about whether it is appropriate to present charges for the criminal court to consider.
“We encourage any potential victims to come forward and report offences to the police and we will prosecute wherever our legal test is met.”
Notes to editors
- The jury in the first trial were unable to reach verdicts, and there was to be a re-trial.
- CPS prosecutors must keep every case under review, so that they take account of any change in circumstances that occurs as the case develops. If appropriate, the CPS may change the charges or stop a case.