Macclesfield FC Co-Owner Suspended Following Arrest
The owner of Macclesfield FC, Robert Smethurst, has been suspended from his duties after being arrested on suspicion of a coercive control offence.
Smethurst, aged 48, was arrested in Wilmslow, Cheshire, on 19 May on suspicion of controlling and coercive behaviour.
In an official statement, the National League North club acknowledged awareness of the reports and confirmed that Smethurst had "temporarily been relieved of all duties associated with the club while legal guidance is sought."
When approached by the BBC for comment, Smethurst confirmed his arrest and described the allegations as
"an absolute load of rubbish."
He further expressed his feelings about the situation:
"I'm absolutely gutted, devastated. I want my club back.
I love the people that have supported me. All I can ask is that they support me through this time.
I hope the whole of Macclesfield gets behind me and we pull together and put me back into a position where I feel that I actually belong."
Cheshire Constabulary provided the following statement:
"On Tuesday 19 May a 48-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of controlling and coercive behaviour in Wilmslow.
He has since been bailed pending further enquiries."
Club Statement and Board Response
Macclesfield FC released a statement on behalf of its board of directors addressing the situation:
"Macclesfield FC are aware of reports circulating regarding the position of Robert Smethurst within the football club.
In light of these, Mr Smethurst has temporarily been relieved of all duties associated with the club whilst legal guidance is sought.
With this in mind, it would be improper to divulge any further information at this time.
Whereas we can completely and unequivocally understand that these reports will be unsettling, the board of directors would like to assure everyone of their belief that they are wholeheartedly acting within the best interests of the club and in a bid to safeguard its continued success.
We would politely ask everyone not to engage in speculation at this time, and further comment will be made as soon as we are able to."
Background on Robert Smethurst and Macclesfield FC
Robert Smethurst acquired Macclesfield FC out of insolvency in 2020 and appointed former manager Robbie Savage. Since then, he has reduced his shareholding in the club.
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