Ex-boyfriend stamped on woman’s head, court is told

A MAN allegedly stamped on his former partner’s head after turning up at her home to collect belongings, a court heard yesterday.

Nathan Kelly (25) is also accused of forcing his way into the house in Co Down on Tuesday and trailing the woman about by the hair.

Kelly, of no fixed abode, faces charges of attempted grievous bodily harm, burglary with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm, and common assault.

Downpatrick Magistrates’ Court, sitting in Belfast, heard he went to the property on the Crawfordstown Road, Drumaness, following the couple’s separation.

Police were called and escorted Kelly away following allegations that he had grabbed her by the throat.

But it was claimed that he returned later the same day to pick up belongings and forced his way past the woman.

A PSNI officer told the court: “The injured party stated that he grabbed her by the throat again, pushed her onto the stairs and dragged her by the hair into the kitchen.

“He threw her down on the ground, kicked her in the face and stamped on her head.”

Kelly also allegedly stamped on the woman’s phone when she tried to call police.

A relative who brought him to the address then intervened, according to the officer.

Defence counsel said an argument developed over what Kelly was allowed to take from the house.

“He disputes that he kicked or forced his way in, and he disputes the severity of the alleged violence,” the barrister submitted.

“He accepts there was a confrontation, but says she initiated that.

“And there was a physical struggle, but no more than that,” the lawyer added.

Bail was granted for Kelly to stay at hostel accommodation in Belfast.

Adjourning the case for four weeks, District Judge George Conner banned him from leaving the city or contacting the alleged victim.