A man was arrested at an airport as he returned from holiday after allegedly attacking his ex-girlfriend. Anthony Harrison was detained at Newcastle International Airport upon his arrival from Lanzarote this week.
The 33-year-old is accused of attacking his former partner at an address in Killingworth on April 24. Harrison allegedly put his foot on the woman's neck, restricting her breathing, pulled out a clump of her hair, and damaged her mirror and door.
Harrison, of Brook Court in Bedlington, appeared at South East Northumberland Magistrates' Court facing one count each of intentional strangulation, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and criminal damage. He spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, and address, and entered not guilty pleas to all charges.
Chike Anieto, prosecuting, stated the case was suitable for trial at magistrates' court. He added: 'Should he be convicted, you could commit the case to the crown court for sentence but The Crown would say it is suitable to be tried here.'
Ben Hurst, defending, disagreed and argued Harrison should be sent to the crown court for trial. Magistrates declined jurisdiction and sent Harrison to Newcastle Crown Court, where he will next appear on July 7. He was released on conditional bail, with conditions not to enter Killingworth, not to contact prosecution witnesses, and to abide by a curfew from 7pm to 7am.
