An Enniskillen man has been refused bail on multiple domestic abuse allegations after a judge considered him a danger to women.

Paul Thompson (42), from Forthill Street, is charged with engaging in abusive behaviour likely to cause physical or psychological harm to his partner on dates between February 21 and July 4.

He is further accused of assaulting her causing actual bodily harm on June 26, threatening to kill her and stealing her house and car keys.

There is also a charge of causing unnecessary suffering to a dog between December 1 and 31, 2021.

A police officer told Omagh Magistrates Court all charges could be connected.

She explained police attended a domestic incident in which the complainant said Thompson had slapped her face.

Due to previous incidents in which she felt she didn’t have evidence, she decided to record the situation.

Describing the footage as “shocking”, the officer noted Thompson’s temper rose while accusing the complainant of cheating before shouting: “I’d love to f***ing kill you.”

He then allegedly grabbed her by both ears and shook her head, before he “calmed down, apologised, told her he loved her and said everything would be okay”.

The court heard the complainant was reluctant to make a statement, contending Thompson: “Would brag the police are on his side and won’t believe her, and his offender manager knows he is no risk to anyone.

“He would put a call on loudspeaker and tell others she is an alcoholic and other made-up accusations to belittle her.”

The complainant feels alone as her family have cuts ties over her relationship with Thompson.

“She states he is extremely controlling and dictates what she wears and who she speaks to. He regularly checks her phone.

“He bought her a dog for Christmas and on one occasion put his hands around its throat and squeezed until it went limp. It’s now terrified of him.”

The officer continued: “She states she has been subjected to abusive behaviour since Thompson got out of prison in May 2021.”

Opposing bail, the officer said: “There is a high risk of reoffending and interference with the complainant. The video footage shows the defendant being extremely aggressive, to the point he is screaming at her. He has an offence on record in which a different victim didn’t come forward for almost five years. Police fear if released that could happen with this complainant.”

A defence solicitor confirmed Thompson denies all charges and: “Doesn’t accept the version of events put forward to police. He also has a limited record.”

To this, District Judge Bernie Kelly shot back: “Don’t even use that word. It’s an insult. How many of those sort of offences do you think any human being should have on their record? Don’t go there.”

Wasting no time in throwing out the application, Judge Kelly said: “I consider the defendant presents as a danger, particularly to females. In this modern day we have to create space for victims of domestic abuse and coercive behaviour and control, to be fit and free to come forward. The defendant being on bail will not assist that.”

Addressing the prosecution Judge Kelly warned: “This is going to crown court. Don’t even think about directing this as a magistrate’s court case.”

She also asked police to reassure the complainant that her cooperation with the process: “Will be as protected as well as we can, so she understands she has a platform.”

Thompson was remanded in custody to appear by video-link at Enniskillen Magistrates Court next month.