Ched Evans distances himself from sick internet trolls naming or taunting rape accuser
He has said he "absolutely disassociates" himself from anyone who names or abuses the woman who accused him of rape
CHED Evans, found not guilty of rape yesterday, has said he "absolutely disassociates" himself from anyone who names or abuses the woman who accused him of the crime.
He was found not guilty after a re-trial which followed an appeal over his conviction.
In a statement posted on his website, the footballer, who was cleared by a jury of seven women and five men yesterday, made the comment addressing the social media abuse and apologised "to anyone who might have been affected by the events of the night in question".
He was accused of rape following an incident at a Premier Inn in Rhuddlan, Wales, on May 30, 2011.
After the verdict, trolls have been naming and taunting the young woman who accused him of rape.
During the re-trial her sexual history was brought up in detail by the defence, something which is rarely allowed in these kinds of cases.
Complainants in sexual offence cases have the right to lifelong anonymity under the Sexual offences Act 1992.
Police have now confirmed they are investigating reports that the woman has been named on social media.
It come out yesterday that due to the horrific abuse she received, the woman was given a new identity and moved from the North Wales area.
Superintendent Jo Williams, from North Wales Police, said: "People need to be aware that they could find themselves being arrested and prosecuted and heavily fined.
"This was done previously, people were prosecuted and heavily fined."
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The statement on chedevans.com said in full: "In the early hours of 30th May 2011 an incident occurred in North Wales that was to change my life and the lives of others for ever.
"That incident did not involve the commission of a criminal offence and today I am overwhelmed with relief that the jury agreed.
"I would like to thank my legal team, Judy Khan QC and David Emanuel of Garden Court Chambers, London and Shaun Draycott of Draycott Browne Solicitors, Manchester, for their tireless efforts upon my behalf.
"Thanks go, too, to my friends and family; most notably my fiancée, Natasha, who chose, perhaps incredibly, to support me in my darkest hour.
"Whilst my innocence has now been established, I wish to make it clear that I wholeheartedly apologise to anyone who might have been affected by the events of the night in question.
"Following yesterday's decision at Cardiff Crown Court I want to stress that I absolutely disassociate myself from anyone who names on any forum the woman in this case.
"Or makes any offensive comments about her.
"Everyone associated with the past five years now has the right to move on with their lives and I wish no ill will to anybody. Thank you."
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