Steven Walsh, 42, from Ballydermot Road in Castledawson, appeared at Antrim Magistrates' Court in Ballymena on April 21. He faces 11 charges including non-fatal strangulation and false imprisonment of a woman. The charges cover incidents in March this year and domestic abuse from July last year to March this year.

Walsh is accused of multiple assaults on the woman, behaving in a threatening or abusive manner, and taking a vehicle without consent. Alleged acts include slapping her face, dragging her by the hair, lifting her by the ears, and punching her before pulling her into a car in the Portglenone area.

The court heard the woman has health issues making her frail. When charged, Walsh replied 'madness' and shouted obscene phrases. His defence barrister stated he denies the allegations.

Walsh received bail of 500 pounds plus a 1,000-pound surety to attend a Confirmation ceremony in Portglenone. He must have no contact with the woman. The case resumes on May 19.