A Whitehaven man has admitted a domestic assault on a woman — five days after he missed the scheduled start of his trial, switched off his phone and began a bout of heavy drinking.
David Hewer, 37, of Esk Avenue, had previously denied assaulting the female, causing her actual bodily harm, following an incident in early May.
Hewer had been due to stand trial at Carlisle Crown Court last Wednesday but failed to turn up for the hearing.
There was initial concern for his well-being. Prosecutor Tim Evans said: “It seems he missed the trial date having turned off his phone and engaged in heavy drinking.”
However, when he failed to show at court again later in the week as the progress of his case was discussed, a warrant for his arrest was issued.
Hewer handed himself in at Whitehaven police station yesterday, and appeared in front of a judge today when he apologised for his failures to attend last week.
When the charge he faced was put to him again by a court clerk, Hewer pleaded guilty to the actual bodily harm assault offence.
A probation service pre-sentence report was ordered by the judge, who heard alcohol had become an increasing problem in the defendant’s life, and that support in the community may be possible.
Hewer’s case was adjourned until December 13, when he is due to be sentenced for domestic violence which the judge said would be taken seriously.
In the meantime, the defendant was remanded in custody.
