update: Police in Surrey, England, will not bring charges against former Jam frontman Paul Weller [ tickets ], who was arrested last week in conjunction with an alleged rape after a 36-year-old woman claimed that he raped her at a party in Farnham, Surrey, four years ago.

According to a statement issued by Surrey Police, "Following investigation and consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service it has been decided that the matter will not be subject to further police involvement."

Weller expressed his anger over the ordeal in a statement posted on his official site on Friday afternoon (10/27):

"From the start I have emphatically denied the allegation. Rape is despicable, and to be accused of the crime has been one of the most depressing moments of my life.

"I should add, however, that the current legal system, in which only the alleged victim in a rape case is guaranteed anonymity, seems grossly unfair.

"My name has been tarnished even though there is no substance in the allegation--I doubt very much that the news of my innocence will make the same headlines as the story of my arrest. While I understand the need for anonymity, it should be extended to both parties in such cases, especially prior to any criminal charges being brought."