British actor Micheal Ward, known for Netflix’s “Top Boy,” is acquitted of rape and sexual assault charges by a London jury. Multiple outlets report the case was heard at Snaresbrook Crown Court and followed allegations involving an incident in January 2023 in London. The woman who brought the allegations said Ward sexually assaulted her in the back of a car after they met around a New Year’s party earlier that month. Prosecutors brought five charges, including two counts of rape, two counts of assault by penetration, and one count of sexual assault.
The jury returns a not-guilty verdict on all counts, bringing an end to the three-and-a-half-year investigation and 10-day trial described by several sources. Reports also say Ward, 28, denied wrongdoing during the proceedings. Coverage notes that after the verdict, Ward reacts with visible emotion. Outlets identify Ward’s public profile, including his work on “Top Boy” and other film and television projects, and mention recognition such as BAFTA’s rising star award.