FA launches investigation into Premier League boss over child sex abuse case

THE FOOTBALL Association have launched a safeguarding investigation into a Premier League boss cleared over multiple historical sex abuse allegations.

At least three women made complaints to cops against the well-known football figure.

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Police took the decision not to bring criminal charges after receiving advice from the CPS.

Crown lawyers believed there was insufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of a successful prosecution.

The FA inquiry is now able to proceed following the conclusion of the police criminal investigation and could recommend special measures are taken against the man.

A spokesperson for the national governing body said: “We have robust safeguarding measures in place, and all referrals into us are handled in line with our policies and procedures.

“We investigate and assess all allegations and concerns about individuals who may pose a risk of harm to children and adults at risk in football and, where applicable, can impose proportionate safeguarding measures in accordance with FA safeguarding regulations.

‘’We do not comment on individual cases.”

The man also still faces civil action from a woman who claims he raped her at his home when she was 15.

Separately, other women alleged to police they were sexually assaulted and raped by the man, who cannot be named for legal reasons.

He was quizzed under caution by police on at least two occasions over the allegations, which he strongly refuted.

The soccer boss was quizzed by Met Police officers in June last year over an historical allegation of rape against a teenage girl.

The woman claimed the man forced her to have sex with him when she applied to work for a business he was involved with at the time.

It is unconnected to the football club the man is now linked with.

The investigation was later taken over by Essex Police, already probing separate claims by other complainants against the man.

It is understood the decision to take no further action was taken in September and the man was informed.

Essex Police said it “had received a number of allegations relating to non-recent sexual offences”.

A spokesman for the force said: “Tackling violence against women and girls is a key focus for Essex Police and we take allegations of this nature very seriously.

“Our specialist officers, who specifically investigate non-recent sexual offences, carried out a thorough and extensive investigation including obtaining accounts from those affected.

“Following consultation with the CPS, and acting on advice received from them, Essex Police took the decision that no further action would be taken in relation to these allegations.

“As with any investigation, should new information be received it will be assessed.”

The football boss was given anonymity by a judge for the civil case he is facing.

It is alleged by the plaintiff that he raped and beat her and she is claiming damages for psychological harm.

No action was taken by police in that case either but it will be tested under the lower burden of proof under civil law.