A MAN is to stand trial later this year accused of domestic violence and the relatively new offence of controlling or coercive behaviour within a relationship.

William McClacklan is alleged to have behaved in a controlling manner, having a serious effect on the victim, leaving her suffering alarm and distress, during the course of almost six months until mid-June this year.

It is said to have included allegedly refusing to allow her to see friends and family, taking possession of her mobile phone to monitor who was messaging her, being verbally aggressive and forcing her to inject amphetamines.

During the same period he is also accused of assaulting the same woman on four occasions, as well as damaging her property.

Appearing at Durham Crown Court via video link from the city’s nearby prison, the 35-year-old defendant admitted one of the alleged assault charges, which took place on June 17.

But he denied the other three assault charges, the controlling and coercive behaviour count and the alleged criminal damage.

The case was set down for a trial on the five charges denied by the defendant.

Given a time estimate of up to two days, it is due to start at the court on Wednesday December 11.

McClacklan, of Hambleton Road, in Coundon, near Bishop Auckland, will remain in custody pending the trial.