AN AUDENSHAW man will stand trial in July after appearing being one of the first people in the UK to appear in court after being charged under a new domestic violence strangulation law.
Paul Frankiw has been remanded in custody until a trial on July 15.
The 37-year-old, of Progress Avenue, was arrested following an incident at an address in Dukinfield and charged with non-fatal strangulation – a new offence introduced in June under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021.
Frankiw was also accused of section 47 assault and harassment when appearing at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on Friday, June 10.
If found guilty in his trial at the same court, on Crown Square, he may face up to a
five-year prison sentence.
He has pleaded not guilty to charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and intentional strangulation
Court chiefs say, however, there has been an indicated plea of guilty regarding the breach of a restraining order.
Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr, from Greater Manchester Police’s head of public protection, said: “This new legislation only came in and our officers have already secured our first charge under it which is another step in our commitment to tackling domestic abuse.
“Allegedly strangling someone is incredibly dangerous and leaves victims fearing for their lives and we’re pleased that this has now been recognised and the legislation carries a maximum sentence of five years’ imprisonment.
“Even though it doesn’t always leave physical marks, this doesn’t detract from the serious nature of it.
“We are absolutely committed to investigating perpetrators and tackling violence against women and girls.”