A BRAMPTON man accused of subjecting the woman who was his partner to coercive and controlling behaviour is to appear before a crown court judge.

John Fizgerald, 34, of Townfoot Park, Brampton, formally denied the allegation - said to cover behaviour spanning almost a year - when he appeared before at Deputy District Judge at Carlisle’s Rickergate Magistrates’ Court.

The charge states that he committed the offence between July 1, 2022, and May 15 this year. Prosecutors say he continuously engaged in coercive and controlling behaviour over that period.

The allegation includes an alleged assault, controlling the victim’s movements, going through her phone, following her around and making derogatory comments.

The charge says also that he knew, or ought to have known, that his behaviour would have a serious effect on the woman involved. After hearing representations from prosecutor Andy Travis and defence lawyer John Smith, Deputy District Judge John Rowan remanded Fitzgerald into custody.

He ruled that the defendant, who spoke only to confirm his personal detail and to enter his plea, will appear for a hearing at Carlisle Crown Court on June 14.