Pro Soccer Team Signs Rapist

After several U.K. clubs pulled out of deals to sign convicted rapist Ched Evans, the striker has finally signed up with British third-division team Oldham Athletic. More than 60,000 people signed an online petition begging the club not to agree a deal with the Welsh international player. One sponsor has already severed its ties with the football club. Verlin Rainwater Solutions said in a statement: “We would like to take this opportunity to make clear that we feel that Mr. Evans should be able to lead a life without further punishment after serving his sentence, although our feelings remain the same that this should not be within the public domain where his previous behavior may influence the next generation.” If the signing is made official, a second sponsor, ZenOffice, has said it will end relations with the club. Oldham is in 14th place in League One. Evans was jailed in 2012 for raping a woman in Wales, and was released in October after serving half of his sentence. He has always maintained his innocence.