Courtesy: X
Micheal Ward, the BAFTA-winning actor best known for his role in Top Boy, walked out of Snaresbrook Crown Court in east London today after a jury cleared him of all five charges against him. The verdict came after five hours and 25 minutes of deliberation. The jury found him not guilty on two counts of rape, two counts of assault by penetration and one count of sexual assault, all relating to a single woman.
The allegations stemmed from an incident on January 2, 2023. Ward, 28, denied every charge throughout the proceedings. He told the court that everything that occurred between him and the woman had been consensual. The jury agreed unanimously.
What Ward said after the verdict
Ward appeared visibly emotional as the jury foreman delivered each not-guilty verdict. Supporters packed the public gallery throughout the trial and struggled to hold back tears as the verdicts came through.
His solicitor read a statement outside the court. Ward expressed gratitude to the jury and to everyone who stood by him during the process. His legal team noted that the investigation and trial had placed his life and his career on hold for more than three years. Ward said the experience left a deep impact on him and those closest to him. He also acknowledged those who have faced sexual violence and abuse, saying they deserve to be heard and treated with compassion. He described his faith and his family as the support that carried him through.
What the past three years meant for Ward’s career
Ward has not worked since the investigation began. Police started the inquiry in early 2023, and the public nature of the charges placed his career at a standstill during one of the most promising stretches for a young British actor. Prior to the legal proceedings, he had built a strong reputation across film and television.
He rose to prominence playing Jamie in Top Boy, the Channel 4 and Netflix drama that became a landmark of British screen storytelling. He also appeared in Blue Story, Steve McQueen’s anthology series Small Axe, Empire of Light and The Old Guard. His work earned him a BAFTA and widespread recognition as one of the UK’s most compelling young actors.
What comes next for Ward after the acquittal
Ward’s legal team said he looks forward to returning to the work he loves and focusing on the future. With the criminal case now closed, he can begin the process of rebuilding both personally and professionally. He has not commented directly on future projects.
The verdict brings a definitive legal conclusion to a case that ran for three and a half years. Ward’s acquittal is complete across every count. His statement made clear that he intends to move forward with care and with compassion toward others who have been through difficult experiences of their own.
SOURCE: Yahoo
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