Man accused of campaign of coercive control is refused bail

Tony Maher, 38, is also accused of threatening to attack the woman with a hammer before their relationship came to an end.

Details emerged as a judge refused his bid to be released again from custody.

Citing the prosecution case, Mr Justice Humphreys said Maher believes he can “exert dominance and control” over women.

The accused, of Clonmeen in Craigavon, faces charges of common assault, threats to kill and a domestic abuse offence.

Prosecution counsel Adrian Higgins said Maher’s former partner provided an insight into the alleged “abusive and coercive, controlling behaviour” after their relationship ended last year.

“He monitored her mobile phone, dictated what she could wear and who she associated with,” the barrister contended.

It was claimed that on one occasion Maher forced the woman to make him a sandwich for work in the early hours of the morning.

He allegedly told her: “You’re going to do what you’re told. Get it done now.”

Maher had previously been granted bail, but was arrested again last week on suspicion of being at the woman’s home in breach of conditions.

Defence barrister Aaron Thompson argued that a person seen outside the property on CCTV footage cannot be identified.

“The applicant denies that it was him,” Mr Thompson said.

Refusing bail, however, Mr Justice Humphreys identified a risk of re-offending and interference with witnesses.

The judge said: “Coercive control is something the courts are acutely aware of, the severity of that offending and the impact it has on women in particular.”