Dean Norris, 23, of Gray Street, Workington, has appeared in the town’s magistrates’ court on a charge of engaging in coercive and controlling behaviour.
It is believed he is one of the first people in Cumbria to have been charged with this offence, which came into existence after the Serious Crime Act was passed last year.
The alleged offence was said to have taken place between February 26 and Monday March 28.
Norris has also been accused of assaulting the same woman on three occasions – on February 27, March 27 and March 28.
He pleaded not guilty to all four charges. Trial will take place in the magistrates’ court. A date for this has not yet been set.
Norris, who appeared in court wearing a rugby shirt and grey tracksuit bottoms, was granted bail on condition that he resided at his home address, did not contact his ex-partner, and did not go to the area she lives.
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