The Full Story Regarding The Charges Brought Against Paddy Jackson & Stuart Olding
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Ulster & Ireland rugby players Paddy Jackson & Stuart Olding are to be prosecuted for rape.
Both of the players strenuously deny the offence, which was alleged to have happened in Belfast last June. The IRFU and Ulster Rugby said they took the allegations “extremely seriously” and that both players would be “relieved of their duties and obligations” until the conclusion of the court process. It is likely both will miss the entire season.
The men were arrested and questioned last summer, but were released pending a report being submitted to prosecutors in Northern Ireland. The Public Prosecution Service has said four men questioned in relation to the incident are to be prosecuted.
Jackson and Olding are to be prosecuted for rape. Another man is accused of sexual offences while the fourth faces counts of withholding information and perverting the course of justice. They will all appear in court next month.
Paddy Jackson’s solicitor said they are disappointed with the decision to prosecute,
“We are very disappointed at the decision of the PPS to prosecute, given the particular circumstances and facts known in this case. Our client rejects completely the allegations made against him and we are confident he will be exonerated in due course.”
Joe Rice, Olding’s solicitor, said his client was determined to prove his innocence.
“My client has co-operated fully with the police investigation,” said Mr Rice. “He is a man of impeccable good character and has never brought himself to the attention of the authorities previously.
“He is not subject to any bail conditions and he’s anxious to restore his good name through the court process in Northern Ireland, where the charge against him will be fully contested.”
“My client has co-operated fully with the police investigation,” said Mr Rice. “He is a man of impeccable good character and has never brought himself to the attention of the authorities previously.
“He is not subject to any bail conditions and he’s anxious to restore his good name through the court process in Northern Ireland, where the charge against him will be fully contested.”
