A Carlisle man has admitted intentionally strangling a woman who passed out as a result.
Paul Smith, 53, pleaded guilty to three charges when he appeared at the city’s magistrates’ court this morning.
One involves the intentional strangulation of the woman during an incident in the Carlisle area on November 2 2024.
No details were outlined by the prosecution during a short hearing. However, district judge Matthew Wallace saidas: “I understand that the lady lost consciousness, such was the sustained nature of the strangulation.”
On his reading of the case, the judge concluded that a starting point for sentence could be two-and-a-half years’ custody.
Prosecutor Scott Parker suggested there were some aggravating features to the case.
After submissions were also made by defence solicitor Kate Hunter, it was agreed the case should be sent to Carlisle Crown Court.
During today’s hearing, Smith also admitted charges of assaulting the same woman by beating and criminal damage to a mobile phone belonging to her.
These offences also took place on November 2.
As the district judge adjourned the case, he told Smith that it was to his immense credit that he had pleaded guilty, and that he would receive a discount to his sentence as a result.
Smith, of Springfield Road, Harraby, is due to be appear at the crown court on June 9, following the preparation of a probation service pre-sentence report, which will consider a wealth of information and suggest any alternatives to custody.
In the meantime, Smith has been granted bail. Conditions ban him both from contacting the victim and also entering a north Cumbria road.
