
The ex-boyfriend of reality TV star Lauren Goodger has been cleared of assaulting her after she withdrew her support for the prosecution.
Charles Drury, 26, was charged with inflicting actual bodily harm on the former The Only Way Is Essex star on 4 August 2022.
He was also said to have left the 37-year-old fearing violence would be used against her through “controlling and coercive behaviour” during their relationship on at least two occasions between 1 August 2020 and 5 August 2022.
It emerged Goodger had withdrawn her support for the prosecution during a pre-trial review hearing at Snaresbrook Crown Court in east London on Monday.
Mr Drury was seen smiling outside court and gave a thumbs-up to photographers after the hearing.
Prosecutor Robin Griffiths told the judge he would “offer no evidence”.
He added: “I invite your honour to direct not guilty verdicts be entered.”
Lauren Goodger withdrew her support for the prosecution. Pic: AP
Mr Drury, from Stanton Hill in Nottinghamshire, previously pleaded not guilty to both charges at a hearing in July and was due to stand trial next month.
The court heard the Crown Prosecution Service gave notice of its intention to drop the case in a letter on 6 February. It said Ms Goodger had withdrawn her support for the prosecution.
Prosecutors “reviewed whether it would be appropriate” to summon her as a witness – but decided it would not.
Mr Drury’s barrister Shauna Ritchie made few comments during the five minute hearing.
Read more from Sky News:
Migrants ‘found in luggage hold’ after school trip
Tory MP to step down after ‘life-affirming cancer journey’
London Marathon winner dies aged 24
The judge, Recorder James Lofthouse, told Mr Drury: “That brings these proceedings to an end.
“Not guilty verdicts will be recorded. You are free to go.”
Dressed in a black jumper and dark grey jeans, he showed little visible emotion as he was formally cleared and did not comment afterwards.
Goodger joined ITV reality show The Only Way Is Essex as one of its original cast members in 2010.
Khamrah by Lattafa for Men - 3.4 oz EDP Spray
4% OffGhost Sweetheart Eau de Toilette | Pineapple, Jasmine and Sandalwood | Perfume for Women 50 ml
50% OffMarc Jacobs Dot Eau De Parfum for Women, 100 ml
42% OffTed Baker W Eau de Toilette for Her, Fig Leaf, White Peony and Violet Top Notes, Pink Orchid and Raspberry Middle Notes, 75ml
£11.77 (£15.69 / 100 ml) (as of 07/06/2026 03:29 GMT +01:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Ted Baker Woman Pink Eau de Toilette Spray Floral Green Feminine Fragrance, Opening Notes are Fresh Peach, Bergamot and Tangerine with Warm Musk, Vanilla and Vetiver Base, 100ml
11% OffVera Wang Princess Eau de Toilette - 30 ml
Choco Musk 50ml Eau De Parfum for men and women | Chocolate Musk by Jannat Aromas
17% OffChristina Aguilera Signature Eau de Parfum (50ml) Floral, Fruity & Exotic Scent, Luxury Fragrance for Women
9% OffCalvin Klein - Eau De Toilette CKIN2U - Calvin Klein Women, Ladies Perfume, Women's Perfume, Calvin Klein Perfume, Calvin Klein One - 150 ml
5% OffJimmy Choo Flash Eau de Parfum, 60 ml (Pack of 1)
3% OffFruit of the Loom Men's Heavy T Shirt, White, XL UK
28% OffATNKE LED Lighted Beanie Cap,USB Rechargeable Running Hat Ultra Bright 4 LED Waterproof Light Winter Warm Gifts for Men and Women/Pink
Now retrieving the rating.
17% OffMen's 1/4 Zip Pullover UK Sale Clearance, Fleece Sweatshirt Casual Jumper Long Sleeve T-shirt Top Stand Collar Sweater Plain Pullover Sports Leisure Workwear Quarter Zip Sweater Lightweight Jumpers
Now retrieving the rating.