A CARLISLE man has heard he could be jailed for attacking his partner during a 'prolonged' incident at a city address.

Twenty-year-old Patrick Donoghue had originally faced a total of four charges.

When he appeared at Carlisle Crown Court this morning (Monday) over a video link from custody, Donoghue pleaded not guilty to three of these.

One had alleged false imprisonment; one alleged making a threat to kill; and a third alleged assault by beating.

The same woman is named in all three charges — brought after incidents said to have taken place between September 30 and October 3 this year.

However, Donoghue did admit he had assaulted the woman, causing her actual bodily harm (ABH), on October 2.

Prosecutor Gerard Rogerson said discussions had been held behind the scenes in a bid to resolve the matter and achieve pleas acceptable to all parties.

“There have been close discussions between the police, the Crown Prosecution Service and the complainant who, it is fair to say, remains reluctant and the position remains somewhat difficult,” said Mr Rogerson.

“We are prepared to accept a plea to the ABH. It is agreed that (the case) will be opened on the full facts of the incidents of violence displayed towards (the victim) on October 2.

“It was, in fact, a prolonged, ongoing assault.”

He agreed that neither the false imprisonment charge, nor that alleging a threat to kill or the other alleged assault, would be pursued.

Further discussions will now be held to determine whether a restraining order was needed to prohibit Donoghue having future contact with the woman.

Judge Nicholas Barker adjourned the case after defence barrister Judith McCullough requested the preparation of a pre-sentence report.

Donoghue, of London Road, Carlisle, is due to be sentenced on December 13, was remanded in custody and heard options — including a jail term — would be considered.”

”It is a serious charge, as all domestic violence offences are,” said Judge Barker.

“I will allow a pre-sentence report to be prepared to examine the circumstances of this offence, and your attitude to violence against women and violence against your partner.”

He added: “You should understand that custody will be in be forefront of the court’s mind.”