Man denies assault

A MAN accused of assaulting his former partner has been released on bail after appearing from custody at Lerwick Sheriff Court on Wednesday.

Christopher Smith, whose bail address was given in court as Glenburn Road, Hamnavoe, Burra, pleaded not guilty to two charges that were alleged to have taken place on Tuesday (23 August).

The 39 year old denied assaulting his former partner at an address on Lerwick’s South Road by repeatedly seizing her by the neck and compressing it, pushing her against a wall and raising his fist to her.

He also pleaded not guilty to shouting, swearing and acting in an aggressive manner towards the woman at the same address and uttering threats of violence. Smith is said to have committed the offences while on bail.

Honorary sheriff Malcolm Bell decided against granting a crown motion to oppose bail and released Smith from custody.

However, he was given a special bail condition not to approach or contact the complainer or any witnesses.

Smith was given an intermediate trial diet of 11 October and a trial diet of 27 October.