A MILLICENT man has become one of the first to be charged under recently introduced laws relating to the strangulation of a domestic partner.
Andrew Ridley, 23, appeared in police custody in the Mount Gambier Magistrates Court two weeks ago after being arrested for the offending.
The February 3 incident occurred when the defendant was involved in an argument with the victim.
The prosecution alleges he then strangled the victim.
He is also charged with a further five counts of aggravated assault.
The victim was taken to hospital where she was observed by witnesses to have markings on her neck and scratches on her face.
“They noticed her in a state of upset and observed injuries,” the prosecution said.
Magistrate Teresa Anderson said new laws introduced this year meant the presumption in favour of bail does not apply when strangulation occurs.
Despite Ridley denying the charges, defence counsel still had to prove special circumstances exist for him to be released on bail.
Defence counsel for Ridley submitted there were six special circumstances before the court.
The most weighing factor submitted was the fact a potential term of imprisonment may be suspended due to Ridley’s lack of prior history.
“The last 24 hours have been a shock to him and he has been struggling to cope,” the defendant’s lawyer said.
“It has highlighted to him that his family and his job are the most precious things in his life.
“He has no history and assuming the allegations are found to be true, it is not inevitable the possibility of a term of imprisonment could be suspended.”
Magistrate Anderson remanded Ridley in custody for two weeks while an appropriate home detention address could be found.
Yesterday, he was released on strict home detention bail conditions, allowing him to remain in employment.
